The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu, warning of extremely heavy rainfall on 26 May as the southwest monsoon gains strength. The alert comes amid forecasts that the monsoon will soon advance further into Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and the remaining parts of Tamil Nadu in the coming days.
In its bulletin released on Sunday, the IMD warned of isolated to scattered light to moderate rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds reaching 40–50 kmph across the affected states. It further stated that “very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall” is expected at isolated places in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal on 26 May, with continued heavy to very heavy rain likely between 27 and 29 May.
Following the red alert issued in 11 districts and an orange alert in three, Kerala authorities announced the closure of all educational institutions in Thrissur, Idukki, Ernakulam, Wayanad and Kasaragod districts on Monday. The directive covers Anganwadis, nurseries, Kendriya Vidyalayas, CBSE and ICSE schools, professional colleges, tuition centres and madrasas.
Also read: Monsoon reaches Kerala, earliest onset in 16 years: IMD
Tamil Nadu is also bracing for extreme weather conditions, with the IMD predicting thunderstorms, lightning and high-speed winds, along with heavy rainfall. The state is expected to experience continued downpours until mid-week. The red alert follows intense pre-monsoon showers that lashed Kerala over the weekend. Several districts reported damage from strong winds, waterlogging and flooding in low-lying areas. Uprooted trees and inundated homes were among the most common effects as early monsoon activity intensified across the state.
Authorities have urged residents in vulnerable areas to exercise caution and remain indoors during periods of severe weather. Disaster response teams are on standby in several districts. With the monsoon continuing to advance over southern India, officials in the three states remain on high alert to manage any emergencies that may arise.
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