Deep depression over Bay of Bengal; rain to intensify in Kerala, eight districts on alert

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast rain in Kerala for the next five days. A deep depression is currently located over the central-west and adjoining central-east Bay of Bengal. It is likely to move west-northwestwards and intensify into a depression over the central-west Bay of Bengal within the next 24 hours.

A cyclonic circulation is prevailing over central Tamil Nadu and adjoining areas, extending from 4.5 km to 7.6 km above mean sea level. A trough associated with this system extends towards the cyclonic circulation through Kerala, Tamil Nadu and the southwest Bay of Bengal, as well as from the southeast Arabian Sea. The trough extends from 5.8 km to 7.6 km above mean sea level.

Under these conditions, Kerala is likely to receive light to moderate rain from today until September 25. The IMD has issued yellow alerts in several districts, warning of isolated heavy rainfall.

Yellow alert

21/09/2026: Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam and Thrissur
23/09/2026: Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam and Pathanamthitta
24/09/2026: Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod
25/09/2026: Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod

The yellow alert indicates the possibility of isolated heavy rain. Heavy rainfall refers to rainfall between 64.5 mm and 115.5 mm in 24 hours. The IMD has also warned of thunderstorms accompanied by rain and strong winds reaching speeds of 30-40 kmph at isolated places in Kerala today (September 21) and tomorrow.

Alert issued

• Lightning is dangerous. It can cause great damage to human and animal lives, electrical and communication networks, and household appliances connected to electrical conductors. Therefore, the public should take the following precautions from the moment they first see the thunderstorm. Since lightning may not always be visible, do not refrain from taking such precautions.
• Move to a safe building after seeing the first sign of lightning. Remaining in open areas increases the risk of being struck by lightning.
• Keep windows and doors closed during times of strong winds and thunderstorms. Do not stand near doors and windows. Stay inside the building and try to avoid touching the walls or floor as much as possible.
• Disconnect household appliances from the power supply. Avoid proximity to electrical appliances during a thunderstorm.
• Avoid using the telephone during a thunderstorm. It is safe to use a mobile phone.
• Avoid playing outdoors and on terraces, including with children, if the weather is cloudy.
• Do not stand under trees during a thunderstorm. Do not park vehicles under trees.
• Stay inside your vehicle during a thunderstorm. Do not put your arms or legs out. You will be safer inside your vehicle. Avoid riding bicycles, bikes, tractors, etc. during a thunderstorm and seek shelter in a safe building until the thunderstorm ends.
• Do not go to the terrace or yard to get clothes when you see a rainstorm.
• Tie down objects that may fall in the wind.
• Avoid bathing during a thunderstorm. Avoid collecting water from taps. Electricity caused by lightning can travel through pipes.
• Do not go fishing or bathing in water bodies during a thunderstorm. As soon as you see the clouds, stop fishing, boating, etc., and try to reach the nearest shore immediately. Do not stand on the deck of the boat during a thunderstorm. Stop fishing and casting nets during a thunderstorm.
• Avoid flying kites.