MUMBAI, 21 Jun (Commoditiescontrol): After an on-time arrival in South India, the southwest monsoon experienced an unexpected lull, leaving residents eagerly awaiting its return. The anticipation is now over, as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts a significant increase in rainfall this week, promising substantial downpours in the coming days.
The IMD attributes this upcoming rainfall surge to a low-pressure trough extending from South Maharashtra to the Kerala coast. This meteorological phenomenon is expected to bring widespread showers across South India, with the heaviest rainfall projected to drench the coastal regions.
Residents in Kerala-Mahe, Coastal and South Interior Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu should prepare for isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall, ranging from 64.5 to 204.4 mm, between Friday and Tuesday, June 21-25. Additionally, North Interior Karnataka will experience heavy rains (64.5-115.5 mm) from Saturday to Tuesday, June 22-25, while Puducherry and Karaikal will see significant rainfall from Sunday to Tuesday, June 23-25. The Lakshadweep islands are also set to receive heavy showers this weekend, June 22-23.
As the monsoon intensifies, the Karnataka and Malabar coasts are particularly vulnerable, with extremely heavy rains (over 200 mm) expected on Sunday, June 23. Alongside these torrential rains, the entire region will face thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds, reaching speeds of 30-40 kmph. This volatile weather combination increases the risk of localized flooding, landslides, and infrastructural damage.
In response to the anticipated severe weather, the IMD has issued an orange alert, indicating "be prepared," for coastal Karnataka and Kerala from June 21-25, and for the rest of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu from June 22-25. Authorities and residents in these areas are advised to take precautionary measures to protect lives and property.
Despite the monsoon's erratic start, rainfall data tells a mixed story. Since June 1, Kerala has recorded 223.4 mm of rainfall, reflecting a shortfall of 49%. In contrast, Tamil Nadu has seen a surplus of 143.6%, receiving 86.5 mm of rain. Karnataka has experienced a slight surplus, with 133.6 mm of rainfall, marking a 5% increase above the norm.
Given the IMD's prediction of above-normal rains for the entire monsoon season across South India, communities in Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and surrounding regions should brace for the full force of nature's fury in the coming days.
(By Commoditiescontrol Bureau; +91 98201 3018)