Heavy rains to continue in Kerala; Orange alert issued for Ernakulam, Thrissur

Thiruvananthapuram: The State has been experiencing heavy rainfall, particularly in the hilly regions. The Indian Meteorological Department has warned that this heavy rain is likely to persist until August 17. Ernakulam and Thrissur are under orange alert for Wednesday due to the anticipated heavy rain. An orange alert is issued in Idukki for Thursday.

Yellow alert has been issued in districts of Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode and Wayanad for Wednesday. On Thursday, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode and Wayanad will also be under yellow alert.

Heavy rain has already affected many areas, with extensive rainfall recorded until Monday morning.

Meanwhile, the IMD's warning comes in response to a developing cyclonic circulation over southern Sri Lanka, which has led to the formation of a low-pressure trough extending from Rayalaseema to Comorin. This weather system is expected to bring widespread moderate to heavy rainfall across Kerala over the next five days.

In light of the impending rough weather, fishing activities along the Kerala coast have been restricted due to rough seas and strong winds. The IMD has forecasted wind speeds of 35-45 km/h, with gusts reaching up to 55 km/h in certain areas. These conditions are anticipated to persist along the southern coast of Kerala, Lakshadweep and the central and eastern Arabian Sea, as well as in the central and western Bay of Bengal.

The IMD has also warned of potential landslides, mudslides and flash floods in regions expected to receive heavy rainfall. 
Residents in vulnerable areas are advised to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions as the state prepares for the adverse weather conditions.