Monsoon set to hit Kerala within four days; IMD issues orange, yellow alerts

Thiruvananthapuram: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast that the southwest monsoon is likely to arrive in Kerala within the next four days. Although initial indications suggested that this year's monsoon could remain below normal due to the El Nino phenomenon, weather experts now expect a strong start to the season.

The IMD has warned of very heavy rainfall across Kerala over the next five days, starting Sunday.

Orange & yellow alert in multiple districts

An orange alert has been issued for Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur and Malappuram districts on June 3, and for Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Malappuram and Kozhikode districts on June 4.

These districts could receive 115.6 mm to 204.4 mm of rainfall within 24 hours, according to the weather department.

Meanwhile, a yellow alert has been sounded for Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Kozhikode, Wayanad and Kannur on May 31. On June 1, yellow alerts have been issued for Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad and Kannur.

On June 2, yellow alerts cover Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Idukki, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad and Kannur. 

Full weather report

Landslide and flood risk

People living in areas prone to landslides, mudslides and flash floods have been advised to follow official instructions and move to safer locations if necessary. Residents in vulnerable regions should ensure that relief camps are operational in their areas and consider relocating during the day if advised by authorities.

Special caution has also been issued for those residing along riverbanks and low-lying areas downstream of dams.

With the possibility of strong winds, people living in poorly secured houses or structures with weak roofs have been advised to prepare for evacuation if required.

Authorities have urged the public to:

• Avoid crossing swollen rivers.
• Stay away from reservoirs, lakes and other water bodies.
• Refrain from fishing or bathing in water bodies during heavy rain.
• Avoid taking selfies or sightseeing from bridges over overflowing rivers.
• Postpone tourism trips to hilly regions and waterfalls until weather warnings are lifted.
• Never attempt to drive through flooded roads or overflowing water bodies.

Families have also been advised to keep an emergency preparedness kit ready to deal with any unforeseen situation. For assistance, residents can contact the 24-hour emergency helplines 1077 and 1070.