Kochi: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Kozhikode, Wayanad, and Kannur on Sunday, predicting extremely heavy rainfall exceeding 20 cm. This warning comes as part of a broader forecast of intense weather conditions across Kerala and the Lakshadweep region, driven by strong south-westerly winds at lower levels.
From Friday, these winds are expected to trigger widespread rainfall activity that will persist until June 25. The IMD has also issued various levels of alerts for different districts over the next few days, reflecting the severity and expected rainfall in each area. An orange alert, indicating very heavy rainfall of 12-20 cm, has been issued for Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Kannur on Friday. The alert extends to Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod on Saturday. On Sunday, the orange alert includes Palakkad, Malappuram, and Kasaragod. A yellow alert, signalling heavy rainfall between 6-12 cm, has been declared for multiple districts: Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha, Kannur, and Kasaragod on Thursday; Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Wayanad, and Kasaragod on Friday; Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, and Lakshadweep on Saturday; and Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Idukki, Ernakulam, Kottayam, Thrissur, and Lakshadweep on Sunday. In addition to the heavy rainfall, thunderstorms accompanied by lightning are very likely to occur at isolated places in Kerala until Friday. The coastal areas are also expected to experience squally weather, with wind speeds ranging from 35-45 kmph, gusting up to 55 kmph. Given these conditions, fishermen have been advised to avoid venturing into the sea until Sunday.
The IMD’s alerts are a part of their ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and preparedness of residents in the face of adverse weather. The red alert for Kozhikode, Wayanad, and Kannur underscores the critical need for precautionary measures in these regions, where the risk of flooding and landslides is heightened due to the forecasted extreme rainfall. The state government and local authorities are likely to enhance monitoring and response strategies to mitigate the impact of these severe weather conditions. Public advisories have been issued, urging residents to stay informed about weather updates and follow safety guidelines. The potential for significant disruption to daily life and economic activities in the affected areas is high. Authorities are focusing on disaster management protocols, ensuring that emergency services are on high alert and ready to respond to any incidents resulting from the anticipated heavy rains.
