Thiruvananthapuram: The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) on Wednesday issued a swell surge warning for Kerala, south Tamil Nadu and the Lakshadweep islands, cautioning of possible inundation in low-lying coastal areas between August 19 and 20.

According to INCOIS, high-period swells originating in the southern Indian Ocean have reached the Kerala and south Tamil Nadu coasts. Their interaction with the coastal region is expected to continue until August 20.

The agency said wave surging and inundation could occur in low-lying coastal areas of Kerala, south Tamil Nadu and Lakshadweep from the evening of August 19 through the evening of August 20.

"Fishermen and coastal population under warning districts are cautioned to be alert for surging of waves (gushing of sea water) intermittently in the nearshore or beach region, particularly in the low-lying areas," INCOIS said in its advisory.

It further cautioned against the operation of small vessels close to the shore.

"The public should be advised that small vessels should not ply nearshore. Boats may be anchored at a fair distance from each other to avoid collision and damage," the agency said.

INCOIS also advised that operational and recreational tourist activities at beaches and nearshore areas be completely suspended during the warning period.

The agency provides ocean-state forecasts for the seas surrounding India, including during extreme conditions such as high waves, swells and cyclones.

The warning comes as high-period swells from the southern Indian Ocean continue to affect coastal waters, with authorities urging residents, fishermen and visitors to exercise caution in vulnerable coastal stretches. (PTI)