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Kerala is experiencing unusually warm weather for the middle of July as weak southwest monsoon activity, a long dry spell, and the developing El Niño have caused daytime temperatures to rise across many parts of the state. Maximum temperatures are currently 2 to 5 degrees Celsius above normal in several districts.
Kerala's Rising Temperatures
On Wednesday, Palakkad recorded a maximum temperature of 33.6 degrees Celsius, which was 5 degrees above the seasonal average. Kozhikode also saw a high of 34 degrees Celsius, around 4.6 degrees above normal.
Reasons behind Kerala's Hot Weather in July
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the main reason for the temperature rise is the lack of rainfall during a period that usually receives heavy monsoon showers. IMD Kerala Director Neetha K. Gopal said that mid-July is normally one of the wettest times of the year in the state. However, reduced rainfall and fewer clouds have allowed more sunlight to reach the ground, leading to warmer days.
She added that similar weather conditions are being seen in many parts of South India. Some neighbouring areas in Tamil Nadu have even experienced heatwave conditions, which are unusual for July.
Meteorologist Rajeevan Erikkulam said the developing El Niño is also influencing the weather. He explained that with less rain and clearer skies, more solar heat reaches the surface, keeping temperatures 4 to 5 degrees above normal. He said this is not an extreme heatwave but an unusual seasonal weather pattern caused by the current dry spell.
Kerala Rain Alert at the End of July
The IMD expects some relief from Friday as cloud cover is likely to increase. Rainfall activity is also expected to improve gradually. Officials believe the southwest monsoon could become active again by the end of July as weather systems develop over the Bay of Bengal.
Until then, warm weather is likely to continue, especially in places receiving little or no rain. The IMD also said that if El Niño continues to strengthen, the monsoon may remain irregular, with long dry periods followed by short spells of heavy rainfall instead of steady showers.