Thiruvananthapuram: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for five districts in Kerala—Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, and Idukki—due to the likelihood of heavy rainfall throughout the week. Residents in areas prone to landslides, mudslides, and flash floods have been advised to relocate to safer locations as a precaution.
On Wednesday, several districts, including Kollam, Pathanamthitta, and Thiruvananthapuram, experienced widespread rainfall. The Vithura-Bonacaud road in Thiruvananthapuram was partially blocked by a landslide, although restoration efforts are expected to be completed by Thursday. Additionally, the water level in the Vamanapuram River has risen due to continuous rains.
In Kochi, part of the boundary wall surrounding the CUSAT grounds collapsed due to heavy downpours. Fortunately, no injuries were reported from the 10-meter-high wall collapse.
A rare waterspout was observed in the Vizhinjam area of Thiruvananthapuram on Wednesday. This rotating column of air formed over the sea and was recorded by fishermen. A waterspout is a funnel-shaped cloud that touches the water, forming a vortex due to pressure differences in the clouds. This fascinating event caused water to rise in several areas of the sea as the column descended from dark storm clouds.
Authorities have urged people living in vulnerable areas to remain vigilant and follow official instructions to ensure their safety. The IMD has also advised fishermen to avoid venturing into the sea as the weather conditions could worsen. With more rain expected in the coming days, emergency teams are on standby to respond to any incidents of flooding or landslides. The situation continues to be monitored closely, and residents are encouraged to stay updated on weather alerts and warnings.
