Kerala's 'air-conditioned' climate disappears in ecological strain

Kerala's climate is undergoing a marked transformation, with shifts over the past five years altering the rhythm of its mountains, coasts and ecosystems.

- HD Bureau

Observations show that average temperatures are rising, rainfall patterns are becoming more erratic and extreme downpours are growing more intense. Scientists note that the gap between peak and low temperatures has widened, creating potential for drought in some zones and stress in others.

At the same time, the state’s monsoon rainfall has declined: the southwest monsoon has reduced by about 12.4 per cent and the northeast monsoon by approximately 5.4 per cent over the last century—a trend now gaining sharper focus.

On the state’s hilly terrains and acidic soils, these meteorological changes have begun altering the flora and fauna in observable ways. The once-reliable “air-c-onditioned” climate of the hills has warmed, disrupting habitats for endemic species and enabling pests and diseases to gain ground.