Onam celebrations face rain threat; Kerala issues yellow alert for 9 districts

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala is bracing for an intensification of rainfall from August 23 to 25, with yellow alerts issued in nine districts over the next two days. The warning comes as Onam celebrations begin, with authorities urging caution in hilly and low-lying areas amid the risk of landslides, mudslides, flash floods and strong winds.

Kerala rain alert from August 23 to 25

Kerala is likely to witness intensified rainfall from August 23 to 25, coinciding with the Onam celebration period. The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority has urged people to exercise caution, particularly in hilly and other vulnerable areas.

Yellow alert on August 23

A yellow alert has been issued for Sunday, August 23, in Kasaragod, Kannur, Kozhikode and Wayanad. Rainfall is expected to intensify across northern Kerala.

Yellow alert on August 24

On Monday, August 24, yellow alerts are in place for Thrissur, Ernakulam, Idukki, Pathanamthitta and Kottayam. Heavy rain is likely in these districts.

What is causing the weather change

A cyclonic circulation has formed over the north Bay of Bengal near the West Bengal-Bangladesh coasts. Authorities have also indicated the possibility of another low-pressure area developing over the Bay of Bengal, which could influence rainfall patterns.

Warning for hilly areas

Authorities have warned of the possibility of landslides, mudslides and flash floods in hilly areas receiving heavy rainfall. People living in vulnerable locations have been advised to remain prepared to move to safer places during the daytime rather than waiting for conditions to worsen.

Residents in low-lying areas that frequently experience waterlogging have also been advised to assess the situation and move to relief camps if necessary.

Strong winds are also possible along with the rainfall. People living in poorly constructed houses or buildings with weak roofs have been advised to take precautions and move to safer locations if required.

Authorities have been asked to make advance preparations for relief camps in areas where rainfall could intensify and higher-level alerts may be issued.

Onam travel advisory

The weather warning comes as Kerala enters the Onam celebration days, when travel is expected to increase. People travelling to hilly areas have been advised to monitor the latest weather warnings and follow instructions issued by the authorities.