Monsoon Resurgence in Kerala Triggers Flight Diversions and High Rainfall Totals
Renewed southwest monsoon activity across Kerala has led to flight disruptions and significant precipitation totals in mountainous regions. A deep depression over central India is currently driving this weather pattern, though forecasters anticipate a shift in the system's trajectory.
Key takeaways
- A deep depression over central India has revived monsoon activity across Kerala after a dry spell.
- High-altitude areas including Idukki and Wayanad recorded rainfall between 7 cm and 11 cm.
- Aviation operations were impacted, with two flights diverted to Thiruvananthapuram due to weather conditions.
- Meteorologists expect rainfall to subside as the monsoon trough moves north and the depression weakens.
Meteorological Drivers and Regional Impact
Atmospheric conditions have shifted across Kerala as the southwest monsoon regained strength, ending a recent period of dry weather. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reports that a deep depression situated over west-central Chhattisgarh, southeast Madhya Pradesh, and neighboring Vidarbha is fueling the current precipitation. This system is supported by strong westerly and northwesterly winds circulating in the lower tropospheric levels over Kerala and the Lakshadweep region.
During the 24-hour window concluding at 8:30 a.m. on Friday, July 31, 2026, the heaviest rainfall concentrated in high-altitude zones. Peerumedu in Idukki recorded a peak of 11 cm, while Vythiri in Wayanad and Ayyankunnu in Kannur both registered 9 cm. Munnar also saw significant activity with 7 cm of rain.
Aviation Disruptions
Severe weather conditions forced the redirection of commercial air traffic toward Thiruvananthapuram international airport. Airport officials confirmed that an IndiGo flight traveling from Kochi to Male and an Air India Express service from Bengaluru to Kochi were unable to land at their original destinations. These aircraft remained stationed in Thiruvananthapuram pending improved conditions at their respective hubs.
Current Alerts and Forecast
Despite the IMD issuing orange alerts for 11 districts on Friday, observed rainfall remained largely moderate throughout the morning. Yellow alerts were maintained for Thrissur, Palakkad, and Malappuram, signaling the possibility of isolated heavy showers. The weather bureau notes that while the monsoon trough is currently south of its typical position, it is expected to migrate northward. This shift, combined with the projected weakening of the deep depression into a standard depression over the next 12 hours, will likely result in decreased rainfall across the southern peninsula in the near future.
Key Facts
- Peerumedu recorded the state's highest rainfall at 11 cm on July 31, 2026.
- A deep depression over Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh is the primary driver of the current weather spell.
- Two international and domestic flights were diverted to Thiruvananthapuram due to adverse conditions.
- IMD predicts a reduction in rain activity as the monsoon trough shifts northward.
Source: The Hindu — National
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