Kerala is bracing for continued heavy rainfall with a yellow alert in effect for seven districts today, October 19, 2026, as the northeast monsoon intensifies, according to reports from the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Pothanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Malappuram, Wayanad, and Kannur districts are under the alert, with warnings of isolated heavy showers and strong winds.
Seven Districts Face Yellow Alert
The IMD has issued a yellow alert for seven districts today, October 19, 2026: Pothanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Malappuram, Wayanad, and Kannur, Manorama Online reported.
Tomorrow, the alert extends to Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pothanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, and Ernakulam.
On Wednesday, the alert will be in effect for all districts except Kozhikode, Wayanad, and Kasaragod. By Thursday, the alert will apply to Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Kannur.
Northeast Monsoon and Cyclonic Circulation
The intensification of rainfall is linked to a cyclonic circulation over the southeast Arabian Sea and adjoining Lakshadweep areas. Another cyclonic circulation sits over South Tamil Nadu, News18 Malayalam stated.
The IMD predicts isolated heavy rainfall across the state over the next three days.
Coastal Inundation Warnings Issued for Thiruvananthapuram and Kanyakumari
A ‘kallakkadal’ (rough sea) warning has been issued for the Thiruvananthapuram coast from 2:30 PM to 8:30 AM tomorrow, October 20.
Waves are expected to reach 0.8 to 1.3 meters, increasing the risk of coastal inundation, Manorama Online reported. Similar conditions are predicted for the Kanyakumari coast, with waves reaching 1.2 to 1.4 meters. Fishermen and coastal residents are advised to exercise caution.
Wayanad Restricts Tourism
In response to the weather warnings, the Wayanad district administration has imposed restrictions on tourism activities, including quarries, trekking, and home stays, Samayam Malayalam reported. The restrictions aim to mitigate risks associated with the heavy rainfall and potential landslides in the hilly region.
Earlier Rainfall Patterns This Month
The current heavy rainfall follows the onset of the northeast monsoon in Kerala on October 13, 2026, which coincided with the complete withdrawal of the southwest monsoon from the country, News18 Malayalam reported. Earlier alerts were issued on October 16 for Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, and Wayanad, and on October 17 for Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, and Kasaragod.
Precautionary Measures Advised
Authorities are advising residents in disaster-prone areas to relocate to safer locations as a precaution against potential landslides, mudslides, and flash floods, Janam TV stated. Those living near rivers and dams are urged to remain vigilant and prepared to evacuate if necessary.
The IMD warning extends through October 22, following alerts issued on October 16 for Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, and Wayanad.