Precursor to Monsoon: Summer rain grips God’s Own Country

As a relief from the scorching summer heat, Kerala, the southernmost state of India that welcomes the monsoon first in the country, received its initial spell of summer rainfall on Thursday. The state had been reeling under severe heat over the past month, and the petrichor following the rain brought a sense of joy and relief.

The state, also known as God’s Own Country, is bordered by the Western Ghats, stretching from Kasaragod in the north to Thiruvananthapuram in the south, and has a coastline of about 580 km along the Arabian Sea.

The Western Ghats in Kerala include major hill regions such as Wayanad, Idukki and Munnar. The Ghats act as a climatic barrier, bringing heavy monsoon rainfall to the state. They are also one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots and the source of many rivers flowing through Kerala.

Known for beaches and backwater tourism, Kerala’s coastline is home to major destinations such as Kochi, Kozhikode, Alappuzha and Varkala.
The India Meteorological Department has indicated that heavy rain is likely in central and northern Kerala, including hilly areas, and may continue till May 5. Authorities have warned of winds reaching 40 to 50 kilometres per hour along with strong thunderstorms.

Monsoon
However, the IMD clarified that the recent rainfall is not part of the monsoon.

The Monsoon is a seasonal shift in wind patterns that brings heavy rainfall to parts of South Asia. In India, the most significant phase is the Southwest Monsoon, which carries moisture from the Arabian Sea towards the land after months of intense summer heat. As the land warms faster than the sea, low pressure develops over the subcontinent, drawing in rain-bearing winds that mark the beginning of the rainy season.

The monsoon typically makes its first landfall in Kerala around June 1, signalling the onset of rains across the country. Kerala receives the earliest showers due to its location along the Arabian Sea and the presence of the Western Ghats, which force moisture-laden winds to rise and condense, resulting in heavy rainfall. From Kerala, the monsoon gradually advances northwards, shaping agriculture, water resources and daily life across India.

Ayurveda

In Kerala, the monsoon season is considered ideal for Ayurveda treatments, as the cool, humid climate during the Southwest Monsoon helps the body become more receptive to therapies. According to Ayurvedic principles, pores open up during this period, allowing herbal oils and treatments to penetrate deeper and work more effectively. Many wellness centres offer specialised therapies aimed at detoxification, rejuvenation and improving overall immunity, making it a preferred time for holistic healing.

State tourism boards are also promoting monsoon travel through events such as the Malabar River Festival, the boat races in Alappuzha, and experiences like the Dubare Elephant Camp, further driving seasonal tourism demand.