Kochi: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a stern warning for Kerala, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall continuing until Thursday. This weather pattern is primarily influenced by a trough at mean sea level off the Maharashtra-Kerala coasts, coupled with a cyclonic circulation over south Gujarat and strong southwesterly winds prevailing over the Kerala and Lakshadweep regions at lower atmospheric levels.
According to the latest 24-hour outlook, there is a heightened risk of low to moderate flash floods across several watersheds and neighbourhoods in Kerala and Mahe. The IMD has cautioned about potential surface runoff and inundation in fully saturated soils and low-lying areas due to the anticipated rainfall intensity. Recent observations have noted strong winds with high speeds across the state, prompting the Idukki collector to issue a public advisory urging extreme caution, especially in areas prone to landslides.
In anticipation of the severe weather conditions, an orange alert has been declared for Kannur and Kasaragod districts on Wednesday, with Wayanad and Kannur continuing under orange alert on Thursday. Additionally, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode will be under a yellow alert on Wednesday, extending to include Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Kasaragod on Thursday. Authorities have also initiated an ocean current watch for Alappuzha, Kasaragod, Kannur, Kollam, and Thiruvananthapuram, alongside issuing high-level warnings for waves. Kasargod and Kannur are under a red-level high wave alert, while Alappuzha, Kannur, Kollam, Malappuram, Thrissur, and Thiruvananthapuram have been issued with a high wave alert. Swell surge watch has been specifically designated for Kannur and Kozhikode districts. As Kerala prepares to face these challenging weather conditions, authorities and residents are advised to remain vigilant and adhere to safety protocols to mitigate any potential risks associated with the ongoing heavy rainfall and adverse weather impacts.
