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Kerala Prepares for Early Monsoon Showers
17 Apr
Summary
- Pre-monsoon thunderstorms may intensify over Kerala around April 22.
- This activity could herald a timely south-west monsoon onset.
- Heatwave conditions are forecast for several other Indian regions.

As of April 17, 2026, forecasters predict a potential intensification of pre-monsoon thunderstorms over Kerala around April 22. This development offers a glimmer of hope against a generally bleak El Niño-influenced monsoon outlook.
These anticipated thunderstorms, gathering urgency approximately 40 days before the usual June 1 monsoon onset, are seen as a critical precursor. They are expected to form a rain-bearing cloud band stretching eastward, indicating a potential on-schedule arrival of the south-west monsoon.
Meanwhile, the Kal Baisakhi thunderstorm season is active over East and North-East India, providing some relief from high temperatures. However, this respite is short-lived, with temperatures expected to rise again.
In contrast, heatwave conditions are forecast for isolated pockets in Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Chhattisgarh, Marathwada, Madhya Maharashtra, Rayalaseema, and Telangana on Saturday. Odisha will experience heatwave conditions for three days starting Saturday, and Jharkhand for three days from Sunday. Hot and humid conditions are also expected in various coastal and plain areas of India.