Thiruvananthapuram: The Central Meteorological Department has issued a warning for heavy rainfall in the northern parts of Kerala, prompting the State Disaster Management Authority to call for heightened public alertness. An orange alert has been declared in five districts — Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod — indicating the likelihood of intense rain. Meanwhile, a yellow alert is in effect for Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, and Palakkad, signaling moderate rainfall. The orange alert will remain active in Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod tomorrow as well.
Meteorological data suggests a low-pressure system is developing over the Arabian Sea, alongside cyclonic circulations in both the central-west and southwest Bay of Bengal. These atmospheric conditions are likely to bring heavy downpours and unstable weather across Kerala.
In response, the Disaster Management Authority has advised people living in landslide-prone and flood-prone areas to relocate to safer zones. Additionally, coastal districts may face the threat of sea erosion, as warned by the National Oceanographic Research Centre. Waves ranging from 0.3 to 0.7 meters are expected along parts of Alappuzha, Kollam, and Thrissur, with even stronger waves — up to 0.8 meters — predicted along the Kanyakumari coast. These wave surges may cause significant erosion until 11:30 PM on May 20, 2025.
Authorities have urged fishermen and residents along the coastline to remain cautious and follow safety advisories.
