Thiruvananthapuram/Bhubaneswar: The Kerala government has declared a holiday for all educational institutions in the districts of Thrissur, Idukki, Ernakulam, Wayanad, and Kasargod on May 26 following heavy rain alerts issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). This comes after the IMD sounded a red alert in 11 districts and orange alert in three districts across the state due to the onset of intense monsoon activity.
The holiday will apply to all categories of institutions, including:
- Anganwadis
- Nurseries
- Kendriya Vidyalayas
- CBSE/ICSE-affiliated schools
- Professional colleges
- Tuition centres
- Madrasas
However, authorities clarified that scheduled exams and interviews will proceed as planned, with no changes to assessment schedules.
Since regular school sessions have not yet resumed in Kerala, only special and preparatory classes are currently underway, which will be affected by the holiday.
Monsoon Arrives Early
In a major meteorological milestone, the southwest monsoon reached Kerala on May 24, marking its earliest arrival since 2009, and eight days ahead of the usual onset date of June 1, the IMD confirmed.
The early monsoon has triggered heavy rains and heightened preparedness across several southern states.
Odisha Records Unprecedented Rainfall
Meanwhile, in a parallel development, Koraput district in Odisha recorded its highest rainfall in 24 years, according to IMD Bhubaneswar.
Director Manorama Mohanty confirmed that widespread rain activity will continue for the next 4–5 days across the state due to an active pre-monsoon phase and a forming cyclonic circulation.
“Light to moderate rainfall is expected in many places in Odisha. An orange alert has been issued for several districts,” said Mohanty.
Additionally, fishermen have been strictly advised to avoid venturing into the sea on May 29 and 30 due to anticipated rough conditions along the Odisha coast.
Economic and Social Implications
The IMD emphasized the economic value of early monsoon predictions, noting that timely alerts and preparedness measures play a crucial role in safeguarding the interests of farmers, fisherfolk, and rural communities. The favorable onset of the monsoon is expected to boost agricultural activities, recharge reservoirs, and support livelihoods across India.