Southwest Monsoon 2026 heading to Kerala, heavy pre-monsoon rains begin, check IMD predictions
The 2026 Southwest Monsoon has begun to make its presence felt in Kerala, bringing heavy pre-monsoon rainfall and thunderstorms to several parts of the state. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), conditions are favorable for the monsoon to advance further along the Kerala coast in the coming days.
The monsoon had already arrived in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands ahead of schedule and is steadily progressing towards mainland India. The IMD had projected the arrival of the monsoon in Kerala around May 26, and current weather patterns indicate that it may hit the Kerala Coast soon.
Heavy rainfall is expected in several districts—including Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha, and Ernakulam—accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds. The Meteorological Department has issued a 'Yellow Alert' for several regions, warning of rainfall ranging from 7 to 11 centimeters in certain areas.
Although the total monsoon rainfall across the country this season is projected to remain slightly below the 'long-period average,' Kerala and other southern coastal regions may experience intense and heavy spells of rain.
Pre-monsoon showers have brought much-needed relief from the scorching summer heat; however, authorities have advised residents in vulnerable areas to remain vigilant in light of the potential for waterlogging, strong winds, and localized flooding.
The Southwest Monsoon typically arrives first in Kerala on June 1st and then advances across the entire country; however, recently, it arrived simultaneously in Kerala and Mizoram. According to experts, this occurs when strong winds originating from the Bay of Bengal deviate from their usual pattern, carrying moisture deep into Northeast India ahead of schedule.