The Southwest Monsoon is arriving early this year, bringing very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall along the West Coast and Western Ghats between May 23 and June 3, according to popular weather blogger Pradeep John, also known as the Tamil Nadu Weatherman.
Driven by twin weather systems in the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal, this rare early surge is expected to cause intense rainfall, especially in:
Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu regions including Coimbatore–Valparai, Nilgiris–Gudalur, and Kanyakumari
Some locations may receive over 200 mm of rain in a single day, increasing the risk of flash floods and landslides.
High-Risk Travel Zones (Avoid Travel)
- Idukki, Wayanad, Kodagu
- Nilgiris – Gudalur to Avalanche belt
- Valparai, Chikmagalur Hills
- Coastal Karnataka (Udupi, Shimoga)
- North Coastal Kerala
Safe Hill Stations for Travel
- Kodaikanal, Yercaud, Yelagiri
- Sirumalai, Kolli Hills, Meghamalai
Meanwhile, Chennai is expected to experience a brief dry spell, while interior Tamil Nadu may see isolated showers on Friday.
Bengaluru is forecast to receive monsoon-like rain, with westerly cloud movement replacing the dissipated Upper Air Cyclonic Circulation.
Tourists and residents are urged to stay alert and follow official weather advisories during this period of intense monsoon activity.