Weather chaos in Kerala: Thunderstorms, wind gusts and heatwave warning

Thiruvananthapuram: The Meteorological Department has issued a weather alert for Kerala, forecasting thunderstorms with strong winds in several districts while the state continues to experience intense summer heat.

Thunderstorms expected in four districts

Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, and Kottayam are expected to witness scattered thunderstorms with light to moderate rainfall over the next few hours. Wind speeds may reach up to 40 kmph, prompting authorities to advise caution.

Heatwave conditions continue

Despite the rain forecast, Kerala continues to face unusually high temperatures. Palakkad is expected to touch up to 40°C, while several other districts are also recording above-normal temperatures.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has urged the public to follow safety guidelines issued by the State Disaster Management Authority, stressing the need for caution during extreme weather conditions.

Relief rains expected, alerts remain active

While summer showers are expected to bring partial relief, the Meteorological Department has issued a Yellow Alert for 12 districts due to persistent heat conditions. A Green Alert has also been issued statewide, indicating the likelihood of summer rainfall in the coming days.

Thunderstorm activity is expected to continue until April 22, with officials urging strict adherence to lightning safety measures.

Fishing advisory and temperature outlook

The department has confirmed that there are no restrictions on fishing activities along the Kerala-Karnataka-Lakshadweep coast for now. However, changing weather conditions are being closely monitored.

District-wise temperature forecast

Palakkad may reach up to 40°C, followed by Kollam at 39°C and Kottayam at 38°C. Other districts, including Ernakulam, Thrissur, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur, and Kasaragod, may see temperatures around 37°C, while Thiruvananthapuram is expected to reach 36°C.

Public safety advisory issued

Authorities have advised people to avoid direct sunlight between 11 AM and 3 PM, stay hydrated, and wear light cotton clothing. Schools and institutions have been instructed to ensure proper ventilation and drinking water facilities.

Lightning safety guidelines

Residents have been urged to move indoors during thunderstorms, avoid open spaces, stay away from trees, disconnect electrical appliances when possible, and avoid using wired telephones during lightning activity. Officials also warned against taking shelter under trees or standing in open areas during storms.