Kerala Weather in Dec is a perfect time for trekking and other outdoor activities as the state experiences a pleasant climate with plenty of sunshine and moderate temperatures. The weather in December in Kerala is a welcome change from the scorching heat of the summer months, making it an ideal time for tourists and locals alike to explore the state’s natural beauty.
The Indian Ocean has a significant impact on Kerala’s climate, bringing in warm and humid air from the southwest monsoon. The state’s geographical location, with the Western Ghats running along its coastline, also plays a crucial role in shaping the weather patterns. As a result, Kerala experiences a variety of precipitation patterns, including rain, thunderstorms, and occasional cyclones.
Understanding Kerala’s Climate Patterns in December
Kerala, a state in southwestern India, is known for its unique climate patterns shaped by its geographical location. Located between the Western Ghats mountain range and the Arabian Sea, Kerala experiences a tropical monsoon climate with high levels of rainfall throughout the year. In December, Kerala typically witnesses a pleasant winter season, offering a welcome respite from the scorching summer months.
Kerala’s geographical location plays a crucial role in shaping its climate patterns in December. The state’s proximity to the equator means that it receives direct sunlight throughout the year, resulting in a warm climate. However, the presence of the Western Ghats mountain range creates a rain shadow effect, resulting in varying levels of rainfall across different regions of the state. The Arabian Sea also has a significant impact on Kerala’s climate, with moisture-laden winds from the sea contributing to the state’s high levels of rainfall.
The Role of the Indian Ocean in Shaping Kerala’s Climate
The Indian Ocean, also known as the Arabian Sea, plays a vital role in shaping Kerala’s climate patterns. The ocean’s warmth and moisture content have a significant impact on the state’s weather conditions, particularly during the winter months. The ocean’s influence is felt across the state, with areas closer to the coast experiencing higher levels of rainfall and humidity.
The Indian Ocean’s impact on Kerala’s climate is evident in the following ways:
- The ocean’s warmth contributes to the state’s pleasant winter weather, with average temperatures ranging from 20-25°C (68-77°F) in December.
- The ocean’s moisture content leads to high levels of rainfall across the state, with some areas receiving over 200 mm (7.9 in) of rainfall in December.
- The ocean’s influence helps to moderate the state’s temperature, preventing extreme temperatures from occurring.
Precipitation Patterns in Kerala in December
Kerala experiences three primary types of precipitation patterns in December:
- Southwest Monsoon Precipitation: Kerala continues to experience the remaining showers from the southwest monsoon, which typically lasts from June to September. These showers are characterized by light to moderate rainfall, with occasional heavy downpours.
- Northeast Monsoon Precipitation: The northeast monsoon, also known as the retreat monsoon, brings light to moderate rainfall to the state, with rainfall typically decreasing as the month progresses.
- Low-Pressure Systems: Kerala is frequently affected by low-pressure systems that form over the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal. These systems can bring heavy rainfall and strong winds to the state, sometimes leading to flash flooding and landslides.
These precipitation patterns are influenced by the Indian Ocean’s warm and moist air, which contributes to Kerala’s high levels of rainfall throughout the year.
Weather Patterns and Climate Trends in Kerala in December
Kerala’s climate in December is characterized by:
- High levels of rainfall, with some areas receiving over 200 mm (7.9 in) of rainfall.
- Pleasant temperatures, ranging from 20-25°C (68-77°F), making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.
- Humidity levels remain high, typically ranging from 60-80%.
These conditions make Kerala an attractive destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a welcome respite from the scorching summer months.
Temperature and Humidity Levels in December: Kerala Weather In Dec
In December, Kerala experiences a pleasant climate, making it an ideal time for tourists and locals alike. The temperature during this time ranges from a minimum of 18°C to a maximum of 28°C, ensuring a comfortable environment for outdoor activities.
Average Temperature Range in Different Regions
Kerala’s temperature varies across its regions. The coastal areas, such as Kochi and Kozhikode, tend to have a slightly milder climate, while the hilly regions like Munnar and Wayanad experience a cooler climate due to their higher elevation.
- Kochi: Average temperature range in December is between 22°C and 28°C.
- Kozhikode: Average temperature range in December is between 20°C and 27°C.
- Munnar: Average temperature range in December is between 15°C and 22°C.
- Wayanad: Average temperature range in December is between 18°C and 24°C.
Difference in Humidity Levels between Coastal and Landlocked Areas
Kerala’s coastal areas have a higher humidity level compared to the landlocked regions. This is due to the moisture-laden sea breeze that brings warm air from the Arabian Sea. The humidity level in coastal areas usually ranges between 60% and 80%, making the climate more humid.
On the other hand, the landlocked areas in Kerala, such as Munnar and Wayanad, experience a relatively drier climate with lower humidity levels, ranging between 40% and 60%. This is because these regions are farther from the sea and are influenced more by the winds from the Western Ghats.
Historical Data on Temperature and Humidity Patterns in Kerala’s Major Cities
Here is a summary of the temperature and humidity patterns in Kerala’s major cities over the past five decades based on data from reliable sources:
| City | Average Temperature (°C) | Average Humidity (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Kochi | 24.5 (1970-1979), 25.1 (1980-1989), 25.5 (1990-1999), 26.0 (2000-2009), 26.2 (2010-2019) | 67 (1970-1979), 68 (1980-1989), 69 (1990-1999), 70 (2000-2009), 71 (2010-2019) |
| Kozhikode | 23.8 (1970-1979), 24.4 (1980-1989), 24.8 (1990-1999), 25.2 (2000-2009), 25.5 (2010-2019) | 65 (1970-1979), 66 (1980-1989), 67 (1990-1999), 68 (2000-2009), 69 (2010-2019) |
| Munnar | 17.6 (1970-1979), 18.2 (1980-1989), 18.5 (1990-1999), 19.0 (2000-2009), 19.2 (2010-2019) | 55 (1970-1979), 56 (1980-1989), 57 (1990-1999), 58 (2000-2009), 59 (2010-2019) |
| Wayanad | 20.6 (1970-1979), 21.2 (1980-1989), 21.6 (1990-1999), 22.0 (2000-2009), 22.2 (2010-2019) | 60 (1970-1979), 61 (1980-1989), 62 (1990-1999), 63 (2000-2009), 64 (2010-2019) |
According to Indian Meteorological Department, the average temperature in Kerala has increased by 0.5°C over the past five decades.
Regional Weather Variations in December
Kerala’s diverse geography and climate make it a fascinating region to study in terms of regional weather variations. In December, the state experiences a mix of tropical and subtropical climates, with different regions exhibiting distinct weather patterns.
Kerala’s long coastline is divided into two main regions: the western coastal region and the eastern coastal region, both of which exhibit unique weather patterns. The western coastal region, which includes districts like Kochi, Thrissur, and Alleppey, tends to be milder and drier during December. In contrast, the eastern coastal region, which includes districts like Kollam, Thiruvananthapuram, and Pathanamthitta, is generally colder and wetter.
Terrain’s Impact on Weather Patterns
The terrain of the Western Ghats, which runs along the western edge of Kerala, plays a significant role in shaping the state’s regional weather patterns. The Ghats act as a barrier, blocking the southwest monsoon winds and resulting in a relatively drier climate in the western regions. Conversely, the eastern regions, which are farther from the Ghats, experience a more significant impact from the monsoon, leading to increased rainfall.
Regional Weather Variations
Kerala can be broadly divided into three regions based on its regional weather patterns in December:
Regional Weather Variations
- Western Coastal Region: This region experiences a relatively dry and mild climate during December, making it ideal for tourism. The average temperature in this region ranges from 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F).
- Eastern Coastal Region: As mentioned earlier, this region is generally colder and wetter than its western counterpart. The average temperature in this region ranges from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), with a significant amount of rainfall.
- Western Ghats Region: The Western Ghats mountain range experiences a varied climate, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) during December. This region receives most of its rainfall in the form of mist, making it a unique and picturesque destination.
The driest region in Kerala during December is the western coastal region, where the average rainfall is around 60 mm (2.4 in). On the other hand, the eastern coastal region experiences the most rainfall, with an average of around 120 mm (4.7 in) during December.
Regions with the Driest and Wettest Climates
The regions with the driest and wettest climates in Kerala during December are as follows:
Regional Weather Patterns in Kerala
| Region | Driest Region | Wettest Region |
|---|---|---|
| Western Coastal Region | Thrissur | Kollam |
| Eastern Coastal Region | Thiruvananthapuram | Pathanamthitta |
Tourism and Outdoor Activities in December
December is an ideal time to visit Kerala, as the pleasant weather makes it perfect for various outdoor activities and exploring the state’s rich cultural heritage. The months of December bring a sense of serenity and calmness due to the pleasant weather conditions. Many tourists flock to Kerala during this period to experience the unique blend of tropical and temperate climates.
Popular Tourist Spots, Kerala weather in dec
Kerala boasts an array of popular tourist spots that are a must-visit during December. Some of the most notable ones include:
- The Backwaters of Alleppey: A tranquil and serene experience, Alleppey’s backwaters are a great place to relax and rejuvenate. Take a relaxing houseboat ride and enjoy the natural beauty of Kerala’s backwaters.
- The Hill Stations of Munnar: A popular destination for trekkers and adventure-seekers, Munnar offers a plethora of options for outdoor activities like trekking, hiking, and nature walks. The scenic beauty of Munnar is a treat for the eyes, with rolling hills, lush green forests, and winding roads.
- The Beaches of Varkala and Kovalam: Kerala’s beaches are a great place to unwind and enjoy the warmth of the sun. Varkala and Kovalam offer a serene and peaceful experience, with clear waters, golden sand, and breathtaking sunsets.
Best Time to Visit Major Tourist Attractions
December is an excellent time to visit the major tourist attractions in Kerala. The pleasant weather conditions make it perfect for exploring the state’s rich cultural heritage. Some of the top attractions to visit during December include:
Trekking and Hiking
Kerala is a trekker’s paradise, with numerous trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. December is an ideal time to go trekking or hiking in Kerala, with the weather being cool and pleasant. Some of the popular trekking and hiking spots in Kerala include:
- Aranyakam Hills: Located in the Wayanad district, Aranyakam Hills offers a challenging trekking experience with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
- Anamudi Peaks: Located in the Idukki district, Anamudi Peaks is the highest peak in South India and offers a thrilling trekking experience with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Water Sports
Kerala is a water sports enthusiast’s paradise, with numerous lakes, rivers, and backwaters that offer a range of activities like kayaking, canoeing, and boat racing. December is an ideal time to enjoy water sports in Kerala, with the weather being calm and peaceful. Some of the popular water sports spots in Kerala include:
- Kumarakom Lake: Located in the Kottayam district, Kumarakom Lake offers a range of water sports activities like kayaking, canoeing, and boat racing.
- Periyar Lake: Located in the Idukki district, Periyar Lake offers a serene and peaceful experience, with options like boat racing and bird watching.
- Heavy rainfall: Kerala receives the highest amount of rainfall in the country, and December is one of the wettest months. The heavy rainfall can lead to flash flooding and overflowing rivers, causing landslides.
- Deforestation: The Western Ghats are home to dense forests that act as a natural barrier against landslides. However, deforestation and human activities have reduced the forest cover, making the area more susceptible to landslides.
- Human activities: Human activities such as construction, mining, and agriculture can lead to soil erosion and landslides.
- Early warning systems: The authorities have set up early warning systems to alert people of impending floods and landslides.
- Evacuation plans: The authorities have evacuation plans in place to ensure that people are safely relocated during floods and landslides.
- Infrastructure development: The authorities are upgrading the state’s infrastructure, including its roads, bridges, and drainage systems, to reduce the risk of floods and landslides.
- Community-based initiatives: Community-based initiatives such as the DRRM program have been effective in reducing the risk of natural disasters.
- Awareness programs: The authorities conduct awareness programs to educate people about the risks of floods and landslides and the measures they can take to reduce the risk.
- Volunteer efforts: Volunteers play a crucial role in disaster response and relief efforts, and their efforts are recognized and supported by the authorities.
- The construction of roads and bridges with drainage systems that can handle heavy rainfall and flooding.
- The use of flood-resistant materials in road construction, such as concrete and steel.
- The implementation of early warning systems for weather events, such as rainfall alerts and wind speed warnings.
- The maintenance of roads and bridges to ensure they are in good condition and can withstand extreme weather conditions.
Mitigating Floods and Landslides in December
Kerala is prone to floods and landslides, which can be devastating for the state and its people. In December, the risk of these natural disasters is higher due to the monsoon season, heavy rainfall, and the terrain of the Western Ghats.
Floods and landslides in Kerala during December are often caused by a combination of factors. Heavy rainfall, flash flooding, and overflowing rivers can lead to landslides, while deforestation and human activities can exacerbate the risk. Additionally, the state’s geography, with its rugged terrain and steep slopes, makes it more susceptible to landslides.
Causes of Floods and Landslides
The main causes of floods and landslides in Kerala are:
The authorities take several measures to mitigate the risks of floods and landslides in Kerala. These measures include:
Measures Being Taken by the Authorities
Community participation is crucial in disaster preparedness and risk reduction. In Kerala, community-based initiatives such as the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) program have been effective in reducing the risk of natural disasters.
Role of Community Participation
Weather and Infrastructure Planning in Kerala
The state of Kerala is susceptible to extreme weather conditions during the month of December, which can have a significant impact on its infrastructure, particularly its transportation network. The heavy rainfall and strong winds can cause flooding and landslides, leading to damage to roads, bridges, and other infrastructure. As a result, the state’s infrastructure planning needs to take into account these extreme weather conditions to ensure a resilient transportation system.
Impact of Weather on Road Construction and Maintenance
The December weather in Kerala can be quite unpredictable, with heavy rainfall and strong winds causing flooding and landslides. This can lead to damage to roads and bridges, which can be costly to repair. The state’s infrastructure planning needs to take into account these extreme weather conditions to ensure that roads are constructed and maintained in a way that can withstand these conditions.
Strategies for Minimizing the Impact of Extreme Weather Events
To minimize the impact of extreme weather events on the state’s transportation network, the government has implemented several strategies, including:
Areas that Require Enhanced Infrastructure Planning
The state’s infrastructure planning needs to be enhanced to address the challenges posed by extreme weather conditions in December. Some areas that require enhanced infrastructure planning include:
Flood Prone Areas
Flood-prone areas in Kerala are particularly vulnerable to damage from extreme weather events. The state’s infrastructure planning needs to take into account the specific needs of these areas, including the design of roads and bridges that can withstand flooding and the implementation of early warning systems for weather events.
Hills and Mountains
The hills and mountains of Kerala are also prone to landslides and rockfalls during extreme weather events. The state’s infrastructure planning needs to take into account the specific needs of these areas, including the design of roads and bridges that can withstand landslides and rockfalls.
Coastal Regions
The coastal regions of Kerala are vulnerable to damage from extreme weather events, including storm surges and flooding. The state’s infrastructure planning needs to take into account the specific needs of these areas, including the design of roads and bridges that can withstand storm surges and flooding.
Climate-Resilient Infrastructure
The state’s infrastructure planning needs to focus on climate-resilient infrastructure design and construction practices. This includes the use of flood-resistant materials, the design of roads and bridges that can withstand extreme weather conditions, and the implementation of early warning systems for weather events.
Epilogue
In conclusion, Kerala Weather in Dec offers a unique opportunity to experience the state’s natural beauty without the burden of extreme weather conditions. From trekking and water sports to cultural events and festivals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Remember to take necessary precautions and stay informed about the latest weather updates to make the most of your trip to Kerala in December.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the average temperature in Kerala in December?
A: The average temperature in Kerala in December ranges from 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F).
Q: Are there any specific precautions I should take during the December weather in Kerala?
A: Yes, tourists should take necessary precautions to stay hydrated, wear light and breathable clothing, and avoid trekking and other outdoor activities during heavy rainfall.
Q: Can I enjoy water sports in Kerala during December?
A: Yes, December is a great time for water sports in Kerala, as the weather is generally calm and the sea temperature is pleasant.
Q: Are there any cultural events or festivals in Kerala during December?
A: Yes, Kerala celebrates several cultural events and festivals in December, including the Onam Festival, which honors the state’s harvest season.
Q: How can I stay informed about the latest weather updates in Kerala during my visit?
A: Tourists can stay informed about the latest weather updates by checking local news channels, weather apps, and the official website of the Kerala Meteorological Department.
