Kerala on High Alert as IMD Predicts Thunderstorms for Next Two Days
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a significant weather warning for Kerala, forecasting thunderstorms accompanied by lightning at one or two places across the state over the next 48 hours. This alert comes as the region experiences varied rainfall patterns and temperature fluctuations, with heavy precipitation already recorded in some areas.
Rainfall and Temperature Data from Across Kerala
On Thursday, Kanjirappally reported substantial heavy rainfall of 7 centimeters, highlighting the intensity of the ongoing weather activity. Other locations also saw notable precipitation:
- Peerumedu received 4 cm of rain.
- Vellanikkara, Munakkal, Athirapally, and Cheruvanchery each recorded 3 cm of rainfall.
Temperature readings across the state showed considerable variation. Palakkad registered the highest maximum temperature at 36.9°C, while Kannur airport recorded the lowest minimum temperature of 20.6°C. In Kochi, the mercury climbed to 36.3°C at Cochin International Airport (CIAL), marking a significant rise of 1.4°C above normal levels. Several other areas, including Kottayam, Kannur airport, Punalur, and Vellanikkara, also experienced temperatures exceeding 35.5°C.
Meteorological Factors Driving the Unsettled Weather
The IMD attributes the current conditions to specific atmospheric systems. A persistent trough extends from the Gulf of Mannar to south interior Karnataka, crossing Tamil Nadu. Additionally, an upper air cyclonic circulation is situated over interior Tamil Nadu adjoining Kerala, while another lies over coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam with its neighboring regions. These systems are contributing to the likelihood of rain or thundershowers in isolated parts of Kerala.
Temperature anomalies were observed, with maximum temperatures below normal in Malappuram district and minimum temperatures falling appreciably in Kannur and Kozhikode districts. Skymet Weather noted that the early March heatwave has eased across most parts of India following recent weather disturbances, suggesting a broader regional shift.
Gulf Nations Announce Official Start Date for Eid Al Fitr 2026
In international news, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, and Bahrain have jointly announced the official start date for Eid Al Fitr in 2026. This declaration comes amid heightened tensions in the Gulf region, where geopolitical conflicts are escalating.
Escalating Iran-Israel Conflict and Regional Fallout
The ongoing war between Israel and Iran has intensified, with the United States launching strikes on Iranian missile sites near the strategic Strait of Hormuz. In retaliation, Iran has reportedly deployed cluster bombs targeting Tel Aviv. Saudi Arabia has issued a stern warning to Iran, citing a "completely shattered" trust and threatening military retaliation following a series of attacks in the Gulf. These developments underscore the volatile security landscape in the Middle East.
As Kerala residents prepare for potential thunderstorms, global attention remains fixed on the unfolding crises in the Gulf, blending local weather concerns with international diplomatic and military tensions.
