Heavy Rain Alerts Lead to School Closures in Kerala Districts

In response to heavy rain alerts, Kerala has declared a holiday for educational institutions in five districts on May 26. The India Meteorological Department issued red and orange alerts due to anticipated rainfall. This year's southwest monsoon arrived earlier than usual, marking the earliest onset since 2009. The Koraput district in Odisha has also recorded significant rainfall. As the monsoon progresses, economic benefits are expected for farmers and fisherfolk. Read on to learn more about the implications of these weather changes.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 26, 2025, 07:08 IST

School Closures Due to Heavy Rain Alerts

A holiday has been announced for educational institutions in the districts of Thrissur, Idukki, Ernakulam, Wayanad, and Kasargod on May 26, prompted by warnings of heavy rainfall. This decision follows the India Meteorological Department's (IMD) issuance of a red alert for 11 districts and an orange alert for three others due to anticipated heavy rains. The closure affects all educational facilities, including Anganwadis, nurseries, Kendriya Vidyalayas, CBSE and ICSE schools, professional colleges, tuition centers, and madrasas. However, the schedule for exams and interviews remains unchanged. Currently, schools in Kerala have not officially reopened, and only special classes are being conducted.

Monsoon Season Begins in India

The southwest monsoon made its arrival in Kerala on Saturday, marking the earliest onset on the Indian mainland since 2009, as reported by the IMD. This year, the monsoon began on May 24, which is eight days ahead of the usual start date of June 1. Additionally, the Koraput district in Odisha has experienced its highest rainfall in 24 years. IMD Bhubaneswar Director Manorama Mohanty confirmed this on Saturday, noting that widespread rainfall is anticipated across the state in the coming days. "Light to moderate rain is expected in many areas of Odisha over the next few days. The southwest monsoon has already arrived in Kerala, and pre-monsoon showers are currently active in our state. A cyclonic circulation is expected to form, leading to light and moderate rainfall in many parts of Odisha, continuing for the next 4-5 days," Mohanty stated. An orange alert has been issued for several districts due to the expected heavy rainfall, and fishermen have been advised against venturing into the sea on May 29 and 30 due to rough weather conditions anticipated along the Odisha coast. The favorable monsoon conditions are expected to provide significant economic benefits, particularly for farmers, livestock rearers, and fisherfolk.