South India travel alert: Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms to impact coastal getaways in Kerala and Tamil Nadu

A spell of active weather is set to influence large parts of southern and eastern India between February 22 and February 25, bringing heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds to several coastal and inland destinations, as per the India Meteorological Department’s (IMD) latest All India Weather Forecast Bulletin. As per the report, coastal regions, peninsular interiors and island territories are likely to bear the brunt of the system, while conditions are expected to gradually stabilise toward the latter part of the week. The system is expected to gradually weaken from February 26 onward, offering relief to travellers and residents after a few days of unstable conditions.

The most significant impact is expected across Kerala and Mahe, along with Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal, particularly through February 22 and 23. Heavy rainfall is likely at isolated places in these regions, accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning. Gusty winds reaching speeds of 30–40 kmph may occur during thunderstorm activity.

For travellers visiting Kerala’s beaches, backwaters and hill districts, short spells of intense rain could temporarily disrupt sightseeing schedules. Waterlogging in low-lying areas and brief traffic slowdowns are possible during peak showers. Similarly, tourists in Tamil Nadu’s coastal towns and heritage circuits may need to plan indoor alternatives during storm hours.

South interior Karnataka is also likely to witness isolated thunderstorms with lightning during this period, extending the zone of instability inland. Those heading to hill stations or wildlife reserves in the region should remain prepared for sudden cloud build-up and evening showers.

Between February 23 and 24, thunderstorm activity is expected to spread across eastern and parts of central India. Regions including Gangetic West Bengal, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam, Rayalaseema, Telangana, Vidarbha and Chhattisgarh may experience isolated thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds of 30–40 kmph.

Although rainfall is not expected to be widespread in all these areas, localised heavy showers could occur. Brief but heavy downpours may be experienced by travellers, while lightning may be observed in rural and semi-urban regions during the afternoon or evening.

Travellers planning road or outdoor tourism activities between February 23 and 25 should keep an eye on local forecasts and be prepared to adjust their plans accordingly.

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are also likely to witness thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds until February 23 to 25. Wind speed may reach 30-40 kmph during active periods.

Island destinations, famous for water activities and ferry services connecting different islands, are likely to witness temporary operational disruptions during thunderstorm periods. Travellers are advised to keep themselves updated about local advisories, especially when planning boat transfers or marine excursions.

Marine conditions are likely to remain rough, especially on February 22 and 23, with squally winds of 40-50 kmph gusting to 60 kmph expected over parts of the southwest Bay of Bengal and the adjoining Equatorial Indian Ocean. Such wind speeds may result in choppy seas, affecting small vessels and recreational marine activities. While no fishermen warning has been indicated for the latter part of the forecast period, caution is advised during the peak wind phase early in the active spell.

From February 26 onward, the absence of major warnings suggests a gradual stabilisation of atmospheric conditions. This improvement is expected to restore favourable travel conditions across most affected states. While isolated thunderstorms may still occur in some subdivisions, widespread hazardous conditions are unlikely beyond February 25.

For travellers planning late-week itineraries, this transition period may offer clearer skies and more stable weather, particularly in southern coastal destinations that experienced earlier rainfall.

While southern and eastern regions deal with rainfall and thunderstorms, maximum temperatures are expected to rise gradually over northwest India in the coming days. An increase of 2–4 degrees Celsius is likely over that region. Central India may see a 3–5 degrees Celsius rise in maximum temperatures over the next couple of days before stabilising.

Travellers across affected regions are advised to:

Outdoor sightseeing, beach outings, trekking and boat rides may face short interruptions during heavy rain spells, but the overall impact is expected to be temporary rather than prolonged.