The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a fresh alert for southern India, predicting widespread heavy rainfall and stormy weather through the coming week. A developing low-pressure system over the southeast Arabian Sea and Lakshadweep region is expected to intensify into a depression within 48 hours, posing a threat of heavy downpours and rough seas along the Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu coasts.According to IMD’s latest weather bulletin issued late Thursday, the system is likely to move west-northwestwards, bringing an active spell of rainfall across peninsular India till October 23. IMD officials described the system as a significant development that could replicate a monsoon-like phase in parts of southern India.A separate cyclonic circulation persists over north Jharkhand, contributing to isolated showers in eastern India.Even before the system’s intensification, parts of the south have already witnessed significant rainfall. On Thursday, moderate to heavy rain was recorded in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry & Karaikal, Kerala & Mahe, and Lakshadweep. Light to moderate showers also drenched Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Coastal Andhra Pradesh & Yanam, Rayalaseema, and South Interior Karnataka.IMD’s forecast indicates that heavy rainfall will continue across the southern states from October 17–23. Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala, and Karnataka are expected to experience light to moderate rain or thunderstorms at many places, with isolated heavy rainfall likely on several days. Residents and travellers are advised to practice caution. Urban flooding, traffic congestion, and waterlogging in low-lying areas are among the key concerns. Avoid unnecessary travel if possible. Coastal Karnataka, Coastal Andhra Pradesh, and Rayalaseema are also likely to witness intense spells between October 18 and 23, particularly on the 18th, 22nd, and 23rd. Strong winds between 30 and 50 kmph, accompanied by lightning, are expected across the region for the next five days.
Squally weather is predicted for Kerala and Karnataka coasts, Lakshadweep, and the adjoining southeast Arabian Sea through the weekend. Wind speeds of 35-45 kmph, gusting up to 55 kmph, could make sea conditions dangerous. Fishermen have been strongly advised not to venture into the southeast Arabian Sea, Lakshadweep region, Maldives area, and the Gulf of Mannar. Those already at sea have been urged to return to the coast at the earliest possible opportunity.Meanwhile, the eastern and central regions will also see some rainfall activity during the same period. IMD has predicted light to moderate rain or thunderstorms over Andaman & Nicobar Islands on October 20–21, with isolated heavy falls. Odisha and Chhattisgarh are expected to experience thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds on October 19–20.Western India, including parts of Maharashtra, is likely to experience scattered thunderstorms and lightning through October 21. Konkan & Goa, Madhya Maharashtra, and Marathwada will see occasional rain and thundershowers, although rainfall intensity will remain moderate.Northern India continues to experience warmer-than-usual conditions, while the hilly states are beginning to feel the onset of cooler weather. In Himachal Pradesh, Una recorded the lowest minimum temperature of 13.9 degrees Celsius, while Barmer in Rajasthan reported the highest maximum temperature at 37.6 degrees Celsius. Maximum temperatures were markedly above normal over parts of Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Ladakh.Eastern states like Assam, Meghalaya, and Bihar also reported above-normal minimum temperatures. In contrast, parts of Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Sikkim, and Uttar Pradesh saw appreciably warm nights.Over the next seven days, as per IMD’s forecast, there will be continued heavy rainfall over southern India, while the northern plains and western states are likely to stay largely dry. Kerala, Coastal Karnataka, and Lakshadweep are expected to see widespread to fairly widespread rain throughout the period. Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Rayalaseema will also experience repeated spells of rainfall, though slightly less intense. Odisha, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh are forecast to have isolated to scattered rain, while most of northern and central India will remain dry.
Precautionary measures
Given the forecast of heavy rainfall, IMD has issued several precautionary advisories for residents and farmers in affected areas. Urban dwellers are advised to stay alert to flood warnings, avoid waterlogged roads, and monitor traffic updates during heavy rainfall hours. IMD has also cautioned against outdoor activity during lightning and thunderstorm conditions.
