Here are the major weather updates:

IMD issues red alert in Kerala

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for four districts in Kerala - Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, and Kannur - forecasting extremely heavy rains on Monday, December 2. The red alert, indicating over 20 cm of rain in 24 hours, comes after the IMD upgraded its initial “orange” alert for Kottayam and Pathanamthitta to red.

As the state prepares for severe weather, district administrations have declared a holiday for schools, colleges, and ‘aanganwadis’ in Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, and Wayanad. The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) urged residents in landslide-prone areas to remain vigilant and evacuate if necessary. The authorities have also advised caution regarding waterlogging, poor visibility, and potential flooding that may disrupt road traffic. KSDMA has warned that the heavy rainfall may lead to damage to the power infrastructure and increased risks of mudslides.

Tamil Nadu faces flood threat
Villupuram district in north Tamil Nadu continues to reel under unprecedented flooding, and Chief Minister M K Stalin on Monday inspected the region. With the temporary suspension of all train services via Villupuram, hundreds of passengers were affected and a railway official hinted at the resumption of services, by complying with safety norms, as and when the condition improved.

As Tamil Nadu continues to deal with the aftermath of Cyclone Fengal,  the release of excess water from Veeranam Lake has led to a flood warning in Cuddalore, adding to the struggling situation. The overflowing reservoir, combined with the impact of Cyclone Fengal, has significantly heightened the risk of flooding in surrounding areas. The situation remains critical, with local authorities on high alert.
Although the cyclone has weakened, heavy rains have caused widespread damage, flooding, and the uprooting of trees. The Army has been deployed for rescue operations, evacuating stranded people in Puducherry. A report on the extent of the damage is being prepared for submission to the Centre for relief assistance.

ALSO READ|Tamil Nadu: Cyclone Fengal Makes Landfall, Waterlogging In Chennai; Schools, Airport Closed

Karnataka under Fengal effect
In Karnataka, Cyclone Fengal continues to affect the region with widespread rainfall. Bengaluru and parts of Coastal Karnataka have been experiencing heavy rain since Sunday, with more expected on Monday and Tuesday. 

The IMD has issued an orange alert for districts like Udupi and Chikmagalur, expecting very heavy rainfall. As a precautionary measure, several districts, including Kolar and Mysuru, have declared a holiday for educational institutions. Fishermen in Thoothukudi have resumed their activities after a six-day suspension due to the cyclone.

Puducherry faces heaviest rainfall in five decades
The Union Territory of Puducherry saw its heaviest rainfall in over 50 years, causing severe disruption. Power was temporarily restored, and relief camps were set up for those displaced by the floods. The Chief Minister of Puducherry, N. Rangasamy, visited affected areas and assured that necessary relief measures were being taken.

The extent of damage caused by cyclone Fengal and also heavy rainfall in Puducherry and Karaikal regions are being assessed and a report will be sent to the union government, Rangasamy told reporters.

ALSO READ|Cyclone Fengal Weakens, Puducherry Deals With Aftermath Of Landfal

Snowfall in Kashmir
In Jammu and Kashmir, fresh snowfall was recorded on November 30 in the higher reaches, including popular tourist destinations like Gulmarg and Pahalgam. Snowfall on the Zojila axis had caused the closure of the Srinagar-Leh highway. On Sunday morning, dense fog blanketed parts of the valley. 

The IMD, on Saturday, had forecasted light rain or snow in the region over the next two days, with drier conditions expected from December 4-7. The night temperature across the Kashmir Valley rose slightly, with Srinagar recording a low of 1°C.

Air quality improved in Delhi, but still ‘ poor’

Delhi’s air quality showed a slight improvement on Monday, with an AQI of 273, still in the 'poor' category. This marks a welcome relief after 32 consecutive days of 'very poor' and 'severe' air quality. The improvement is attributed to dry northwesterly winds and abundant sunlight, which helped disperse pollutants.