Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala is experiencing intensified rainfall as the southwest monsoon prepares to withdraw, with the northeast monsoon set to begin by October 17, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). On Tuesday, an orange alert was issued for Malappuram and Kannur, forecasting very heavy rainfall between 115.6 mm and 204.4 mm. Six other districts—Pathanamthitta, Idukki, Palakkad, Kozhikode, Wayanad, and Kasaragod—are und er a yellow alert, signaling expected rainfall between 64.5 mm and 115.5 mm.
The IMD has also predicted moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms across all districts until October 20. A swell surge alert is in place for coastal districts, where wave heights could reach up to 1.5 meters, posing a risk to the shoreline. This alert remains effective until October 16 at 11 pm.
In addition, a wind advisory has been issued, cautioning fishermen against venturing into the sea due to squally weather along the Kerala-Karnataka-Lakshadweep coast, with winds expected to range between 35-45 km/h and gusts reaching up to 55 km/h.
Key alerts include:
- October 16: Orange alert for Idukki, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Wayanad; yellow alert for Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, and Kannur.
- October 17: Orange alert for Ernakulam, Thrissur, and Kannur; yellow alert for Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and other districts.
- October 18: Yellow alert for Kozhikode and Kannur.
Impact and Advisory:
The heavy rainfall poses risks including waterlogging, traffic disruptions, flash floods, landslides, and potential damage to low-lying areas. Power outages may occur due to fallen trees, and the rain may adversely impact livestock and people in vulnerable locations. It is advised to stay in safe structures, avoid unnecessary travel, and ensure proper traffic management.
