Monsoon Surge Brings Intense Weather Activity
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an extensive weather alert forecasting widespread rainfall and thunderstorms across various regions in southern and eastern India throughout the week. This active weather pattern, driven by a strengthened northeast monsoon, is expected to persist until October 26, with heightened activity in coastal and interior regions.
Southern States on High Alert
Regions such as Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and the Lakshadweep Islands are likely to witness light to moderate showers, with pockets of heavy to very heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds. The IMD has specifically issued an orange alert for Tamil Nadu, signaling an elevated risk of severe weather impacts. Residents are urged to stay cautious and avoid unnecessary travel during this period.
Northeast Monsoon Gains Momentum
According to the IMD’s bulletin on significant weather features, this rainfall episode marks a pronounced surge in northeast monsoon activity, influencing large parts of southern India. Several districts have been placed under flash flood watch, particularly in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh’s Rayalaseema region, due to persistent downpours and saturated soil conditions.
Detailed Regional Forecast
Tamil Nadu, Puducherry & Karaikal
Heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecast through October 23, especially along the coast and nearby inland districts. Cities including Chennai, Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, and Tiruvallur are likely to experience continuous rainfall during this window.
Kerala and Mahe
From October 22 to 24, central and northern districts such as Idukki, Wayanad, Kozhikode, and Malappuram are expected to witness very heavy rainfall. The public is advised to exercise extreme caution, particularly in flood-prone or hilly regions.
Karnataka
Coastal and south interior Karnataka, including Bengaluru, Mysuru, and Hassan, are forecast to experience intermittent heavy rainfall and thunderstorms through October 25, with gusty winds likely on October 24–25.
Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema
Continuous wet weather is expected across coastal and southern districts from October 22 to 25, with very heavy rainfall likely in Chittoor, Kadapa, and Nellore.
Telangana
The state will see heavy rainfall, lightning, and gusty winds between October 23 and 25. Residents are urged to monitor local advisories and stay alert to changing weather conditions.
Weather Activity in Eastern and Central India
Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Frequent spells of rain are predicted on October 21 and October 24–26, with thunderstorms and wind speeds reaching 30–50 km/h, posing a potential risk for marine operations and small vessels.
Odisha and Adjoining States
Thunderstorms and lightning are likely to affect parts of Odisha and its neighboring areas till October 24. Similarly, Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, and Chhattisgarh may experience unstable weather, especially from October 21 to 23.
Western and Northern India: Isolated Thunderstorms
Konkan, Goa, and Maharashtra
Scattered thunderstorms with lightning are predicted across Konkan, Goa, and Marathwada until October 22. Though rainfall is expected to be less intense, travellers and agricultural communities are encouraged to take preventive measures.
Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand
Brief thunderstorm activity is likely on October 21 in parts of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, marking a short-lived weather event in the northern region.
Flash Flood Risk and District Warnings
Kerala
Districts including Idukki, Wayanad, Kozhikode, Kottayam, Palakkad, Pathanamthitta, and Malappuram face a moderate risk of flash floods due to persistent heavy rainfall and saturated grounds.
Tamil Nadu
Areas such as Chennai, Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, Puducherry, Kanchipuram, Tiruchirappalli, and Madurai are also at risk of flash flooding, particularly where drainage systems are already stressed.
Rayalaseema (Andhra Pradesh)
The IMD has warned of possible flash floods in Chittoor and Kadapa, urging residents to remain vigilant and responsive to any sudden changes in weather patterns.
Precautionary Measures Advised
With the monsoon intensifying across several regions, the IMD has strongly advised caution, particularly for travellers, fishermen, and residents in flood-prone zones. Maritime operations in affected coastal belts should be limited, and the public should stay tuned to official weather updates and advisories.
