Kerala Records 440% Excess Rainfall Since Early Monsoon Onset
Kerala has recorded an extraordinary 440% excess rainfall since the southwest monsoon hit the state eight days ahead of schedule on May 24, marking the earliest monsoon onset in 16 years. The unprecedented downpour has led to widespread disruption, red alerts, and significant impacts on both daily life and infrastructure.
Monsoon Arrives Eight Days Early
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) officially declared the onset of the southwest monsoon over Kerala on May 24, well ahead of the usual June 1 arrival. This marks the earliest onset since 2009. With a strong surge of southwesterly winds and consistent rainfall patterns across the Arabian Sea, the early arrival triggered intense rainfall across the state.
Sixfold Rainfall in a Week
From May 24 to May 30, Kerala received nearly 40 cm of rainfall, almost six times the normal 7 cm expected for this period. Kannur topped the list with 63 cm, followed by Kozhikode with 58.1 cm and Idukki at 45.5 cm. The excess rainfall represents 440% more than the long-period average, according to the IMD’s monitoring records.
IMD Issues Red and Yellow Alerts
Responding to the intensity of the monsoon, the IMD issued red alerts for Kozhikode, Kannur, and Wayanad, signaling extremely heavy rainfall in these districts. Yellow alerts were announced for Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Kannur, and Kasaragod, warning of rainfall between 7 cm and 11 cm. The alerts serve as preemptive measures to mitigate the risk of landslides, flash floods, and urban inundation.
Infrastructure Hit, Thousands Displaced
The impact on infrastructure has been severe. In Wayanad, over 690 people have been shifted to relief camps as homes were submerged and landslides occurred. Kozhikode and Kottayam reported significant damage to homes and roadways, while in Alappuzha, nearly 390 houses were damaged, and electric supply was interrupted in several pockets.
Early Rainfall May Benefit Agriculture
Despite the disruption, the early and abundant rainfall is expected to benefit the agricultural sector. Improved soil moisture conditions could enhance sowing of kharif crops such as rice, pulses, and sugarcane. Economists suggest this could help moderate food inflation and ease pressure on the Reserve Bank of India regarding interest rate decisions.
Forecast Indicates Brief Respite
Though heavy rains have slightly subsided, the IMD cautions that isolated spells may continue. A temporary weakening of the southwest monsoon is expected, but meteorologists warn of another surge depending on developments in the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal. Citizens are advised to remain alert for potential re-intensification in the coming week.
