Kallakkadal Alert: Coastal Regions of Kerala and South Tamil Nadu Warned of Ocean Swells

Weather agencies have issued a kallakkadal alert for the coastal areas of Kerala and southern Tamil Nadu, cautioning residents and fishermen about the likelihood of sudden ocean swells and rough waves. According to the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), the alert is in effect from 2.30 am on Saturday until 11.30 pm on Sunday. Fishermen have been advised to securely anchor their vessels in harbors to avoid potential dangers posed by waves reaching heights of 0.5 to 1.5 meters during this period. Additionally, the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) and other agencies have urged coastal residents to refrain from beach activities and maintain a safe distance between boats to minimize collision risks.

The term ‘kallakkadal,’ meaning ‘sea like a thief,’ underscores the sudden and unpredictable nature of these swells, which can arise from strong winds in the southern Indian Ocean without prior warning, making precautionary measures essential for coastal safety.