IMD Issues Hot and Humid Warning for Kerala with Yellow Alert in 12 Districts
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a significant hot and humid weather warning for the state of Kerala, forecasting a sharp rise in temperatures across multiple regions. A yellow alert has been specifically declared for twelve districts, indicating temperatures are likely to be 2 to 3 degrees Celsius above normal levels on Thursday.
Detailed Temperature Forecast for Key Districts
According to the latest IMD bulletin, maximum temperatures are expected to reach extreme highs in several isolated areas. Palakkad district is predicted to experience the peak heat, with temperatures likely soaring to around 39°C. Other districts facing severe heat include Kollam, Kottayam, and Thrissur, where temperatures may hit 38°C.
Additional districts under alert are Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Ernakulam, and Kannur, with forecasted highs of 37°C. Meanwhile, Thiruvananthapuram, Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Kasargod are expected to see maximum temperatures of approximately 36°C. The IMD has noted an appreciable rise in maximum temperatures already observed in Thrissur and Kottayam, with Palakkad recording the highest recent temperature of 38.8°C.
Thunderstorm and Wind Warnings Through the Weekend
In addition to the heat alert, the meteorological department has warned of potential thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds across Kerala until Sunday. Wind speeds are very likely to reach 40 to 50 kilometers per hour at one or two places, adding to the weather instability.
Atmospheric Conditions Driving the Weather Pattern
The IMD provided insights into the atmospheric systems influencing this weather event. A trough is currently running from interior Tamil Nadu to north interior Karnataka, contributing to the regional heat buildup. Previously, an upper air cyclonic circulation over coastal Andhra Pradesh and adjoining Telangana has become less marked, while a new upper air cyclonic circulation lies over the southeast Arabian Sea off the Kerala coast.
Furthermore, a trough discontinuity extending from an upper air cyclonic circulation over east Uttar Pradesh to south Tamil Nadu, crossing through east Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Marathwada, and interior Karnataka, has also become less marked. These shifting weather patterns are key factors behind the current hot and humid conditions persisting in Kerala.
Residents are advised to take necessary precautions against the heat, stay hydrated, and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun during peak hours. The IMD continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as needed.
