Thiruvananthapuram: The India Meteorological Department has warned that the upcoming southwest monsoon is likely to be weaker than usual, raising concerns of reduced rainfall across southern states, including Kerala. The agency attributed the expected shortfall to the impact of El Niño, which is known to disrupt monsoon patterns.
Even as the monsoon outlook appears weak, temperatures are rising sharply across the state. The weather department has forecast significantly higher-than-normal temperatures from today until the 14th, with multiple districts expected to experience intense heat.
According to the forecast, temperatures could reach up to 38°C in Kollam, Palakkad, Kozhikode, and Kasaragod districts, while Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, and Kannur may see highs of 37°C. Pathanamthitta is expected to record temperatures up to 36°C, with all regions likely to experience an increase of 2–3°C above normal levels.
A yellow alert has been issued in these districts, warning of hot and uncomfortable weather conditions driven by high temperatures combined with humidity. Except for high-range areas, most regions are expected to face severe heat and discomfort in the coming days.
Meanwhile, Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) on Monday warned the public against fake messages circulating on social media about extreme heat in the state.
In a statement, the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority said misleading messages are being shared on WhatsApp as "official warnings", claiming that temperatures in the state would rise between 45 degrees Celsius and 55 degrees Celsius from April 29 to May 12.
The viral message also advises people not to stay in open areas, warns that mobile phones could explode due to heat, and suggests not filling fuel tanks in vehicles.
The authority clarified that the message is being circulated in the name of a "Civil Defence Department", which does not exist in Kerala.
It said the state's Civil Defence is a voluntary force operating under the Fire and Rescue Services.
The KSDMA further clarified that no such extreme temperature forecast has been issued by the India Meteorological Department.
Urging the public not to fall for such misinformation, the authority said all official warnings and advisories should be verified through its official social media pages and website.
It also warned that spreading fake information during disaster situations is punishable under Section 54 of the Disaster Management Act, 2005.