Kerala Faces Extended Dry Spell and Escalating Temperatures, IMD Warns
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a detailed weather forecast for Kerala, indicating that dry weather conditions will dominate the state over the coming days. This announcement comes as temperatures are expected to rise significantly, with above-normal readings projected for the next two weeks. While maximum temperatures showed little change in the past 24 hours, Kottayam already experienced above-normal levels, highlighting the early onset of warmer conditions.
Record Temperatures and Regional Variations
Recent data reveals stark temperature extremes across Kerala. Palakkad recorded the highest maximum temperature at a scorching 37.2°C, whereas Punalur saw the lowest minimum temperature of 22.5°C. On Monday, Kannur airport registered 36°C, with several locations including Vellanikkara, Punalur, Kottayam, Cial Kochi, and Palakkad all exceeding 35°C. These figures underscore the widespread heat affecting the region.
IMD's Detailed Forecast and Predictions
According to IMD, there will be no significant change in maximum temperatures across South Peninsular India in the next five days. However, a gradual increase of 2-3°C is anticipated in the subsequent two days. Day temperatures are likely to be above normal by 2-3°C over Southeast Peninsular India during the upcoming five-day period. In a specific alert, IMD noted that a thunderstorm accompanied by lightning is very probable at one or two places over Kerala on Tuesday, adding a note of caution to the otherwise dry forecast.
Extended Outlook and Meteorological Patterns
Looking further ahead, IMD's extended forecast for the second week of March suggests that maximum temperatures will most likely be normal to above normal across Kerala. An exception is expected in some parts of central Kerala, where temperatures may dip below normal. Current meteorological observations indicate a trough extending from south Tamil Nadu to coastal Karnataka across south interior Karnataka at 0.9km above mean sea level. Additionally, an upper air cyclonic circulation over the Gulf of Mannar and its vicinity at 0.9km above mean sea level has become less marked, influencing the weather patterns in the region.
Residents are advised to stay hydrated and take precautions against the heat, especially with the potential for thunderstorms mid-week. The IMD continues to monitor the situation closely, providing updates as conditions evolve.
