IMD scouting for land to set up wind profiler radars in Kozhikode, Thiruvananthapuram under ‘Mission Mausam’

Mission Mausam, launched by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, aims to strengthen India’s weather observation network and provide more accurate forecasts for agriculture, disaster management, and aviation. As part of this effort, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has begun scouting suitable sites in the coastal districts of Kozhikode and Thiruvananthapuram to set up wind profiler radars. These instruments measure wind speed and direction at various altitudes, filling gaps in the current observation grid that relies heavily on satellite data and ground stations.

The proposed radars will be positioned on government or privately owned land that offers clear line‑of‑sight over the Arabian Sea and the surrounding hinterland. Kozhikode and Thiruvananthapuram were chosen because they lie on the path of the southwest monsoon, a period when wind patterns are complex and critical for forecasting rainfall. By capturing detailed vertical wind profiles, the radars will enable meteorologists to predict the onset and intensity of monsoon bursts more reliably, which is essential for farmers and water resource managers in the region.

Improved data from the wind profilers is expected to enhance early warning systems for cyclones, coastal flooding, and extreme weather events that frequently affect Kerala’s densely populated coastlines. The additional observations will also support climate research by providing long‑term records of wind trends, helping scientists assess the impact of climate change on regional weather. For residents, better forecasts mean more time to prepare for heavy rains, reduce crop losses, and protect infrastructure, aligning with broader national goals of resilience and sustainable development.