IMD Issues Heavy Rainfall Warning for South India
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a weather alert warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall and thunderstorms across parts of South Peninsular India, including Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Lakshadweep, from October 17 to 23, 2025.
According to the IMD, a low-pressure area is expected to form over the southeast Arabian Sea and Lakshadweep region around October 18, which may intensify rainfall in nearby coastal states.
Low-Pressure System Developing Over Arabian Sea
Meteorologists have reported that an upper air cyclonic circulation is forming over the southeast Arabian Sea near the Kerala and Karnataka coasts. This weather system is likely to develop into a low-pressure area around October 18.
Within the next 48 hours, it may strengthen into a depression, leading to increased rainfall activity across Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and coastal Karnataka.
The IMD added that thunderstorms with lightning are likely over Konkan, Goa, and Madhya Maharashtra till October 20.
Southwest Monsoon Officially Withdraws from India
In a major seasonal update, the IMD announced the complete withdrawal of the southwest monsoon from the entire country on October 16, 2025.
“Southwest monsoon has withdrawn from the entire country today,” the IMD bulletin stated.
With the retreat of the southwest monsoon, the northeast monsoon has begun to influence weather conditions over southern India, particularly Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Kerala.
Heavy Rain Forecast in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Lakshadweep
Between October 17 and 23, light to moderate rain with isolated heavy downpours is expected across the southern peninsula.
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On October 17, very heavy rainfall is likely in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Lakshadweep.
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Isolated heavy rains are also forecast for South Interior Karnataka from October 17 to 19, and over Coastal Karnataka, Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, and Rayalaseema.
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The IMD also warned of thunderstorms with lightning across most of South India during this period.
Residents in these regions are advised to stay alert and follow local weather advisories for safety.
Delhi Weather Update: Clear Skies Ahead
For the Delhi-NCR region, the IMD forecast clear skies over the next few days. However, morning mist and haze are expected to continue.
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Maximum temperature: 32–34°C
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Minimum temperature: 17–19°C
The weather in Delhi is expected to remain pleasant and dry following the withdrawal of the monsoon.
Mumbai Sees Unexpected Showers
Several parts of Mumbai witnessed light to moderate rainfall on Thursday night (October 16).
Areas such as Dadar, Bandra, Goregaon, Ghatkopar, Chembur, and Vikhroli reported intermittent showers. The IMD issued a green alert for Mumbai, predicting moderate rainfall in isolated areas, especially across the eastern suburbs.
IMD Advisory: Stay Updated and Prepared
The IMD has advised residents in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Lakshadweep to remain cautious over the next few days. Fishermen have been warned not to venture into the Arabian Sea due to rough weather conditions caused by the low-pressure system.
Citizens are encouraged to check daily forecasts, avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall, and keep emergency supplies ready.
