The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a detailed alert predicting widespread rainfall and thunderstorms across southern and eastern India over the coming week. The forecast warns that these conditions are likely to continue through October 26, affecting multiple states and Union Territories.
Heavy rainfall expected in southern states
Southern India, including Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and the Lakshadweep Islands, is expected to experience light to moderate rainfall, with isolated heavy to very heavy showers in certain pockets. The IMD has issued an orange alert for Tamil Nadu, urging residents to exercise caution and avoid non-essential travel until conditions improve.
“Widespread rainfall reflects the intensification of the northeast monsoon, which is currently affecting both coastal and interior regions of southern India,” the IMD bulletin stated.
Regional forecasts
Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal: Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected till October 23, particularly along coastal and adjoining interior districts. Chennai, Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, and Tiruvallur are likely to witness significant rainfall.
Kerala and Mahe: Very heavy rainfall is predicted from October 22 to 24, especially in central and northern districts like Idukki, Wayanad, Kozhikode, and Malappuram. Residents are advised to travel with caution.
Karnataka: Coastal and interior districts will experience intermittent heavy rainfall till October 25. South interior districts including Bengaluru, Mysuru, and Hassan may face thunderstorms and gusty winds on October 24–25.
Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema: Coastal and southern districts will likely face continuous wet weather through the week, with very heavy rain expected between October 22 and 25. Chittoor, Kadapa, and Nellore are particularly vulnerable.
Telangana: Heavy rainfall with lightning and localised gusty winds is forecast from October 23–25. Authorities have urged residents and travellers to exercise caution.
Weather alerts in eastern and central India
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are likely to see multiple rainfall spells between October 21 and October 26. Thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds reaching 30–50 kmph may pose risks for maritime activities and small boats. Odisha and adjoining areas can expect thunderstorms with lightning till October 24. Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, and Chhattisgarh are forecast to experience similar conditions from October 21–23.
Western India, including Konkan, Goa, Marathwada, and parts of Maharashtra, may witness localised thunderstorms with lightning till October 22. Northern states like Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand may experience brief spells of thunderstorms on October 21.
Flash flood risks
The IMD has issued low to moderate flash flood warnings for several districts in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh’s Rayalaseema region. Kerala districts including Idukki, Wayanad, Kozhikode, Kottayam, Palakkad, Pathanamthitta, and Malappuram are vulnerable due to saturated soil and ongoing rainfall. Rayalaseema districts Chittoor and Kadapa, and Tamil Nadu districts such as Chennai, Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, Puducherry, Kanchipuram, Tiruchirappalli, and Madurai have also been identified as at risk.
Authorities have advised residents to monitor local weather updates, avoid low-lying areas, and follow safety precautions to mitigate the impact of heavy rainfall and potential flooding.