Heavy rainfall is expected in several parts of Kerala over the next 48 hours, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warning of intensified spells in five districts.

Rain is likely to remain fairly widespread to widespread across the state until at least August 18. However, some districts are expected to receive heavier downpours, prompting authorities to issue weather alerts and safety guidelines.

Yellow alerts in five districts

The IMD has issued a yellow alert for Kannur and Kasaragod on Thursday, August 13. The two northern districts could receive heavy rainfall during the 24-hour period.

A yellow alert indicates the possibility of rainfall between 64.5mm and 115.5mm in 24 hours.

The weather focus is expected to shift towards central and southern highland districts on Friday, August 14. Pathanamthitta, Kottayam and Idukki have been placed under a yellow alert for the day.

Residents in the affected districts have been advised to remain alert as weather conditions could change quickly during heavy rain.

Weather systems keeping monsoon active

Several weather systems are contributing to the continued rainfall over the southern peninsula.

A low-pressure area has formed over the North Bay of Bengal and is expected to intensify into a depression within the next 36 hours.

A shear zone is also present near 22°N latitude over central India, adding to the prevailing atmospheric disturbance.

At the same time, the monsoon trough remains active and is positioned south of its normal location. This is helping channel moisture towards Kerala and supporting continued rainfall across the state.

Safety advice issued for public

The weather office has advised residents to closely monitor changing weather conditions during periods of heavy rain.

People have been asked to avoid taking shelter under trees, particularly during thunderstorms, because of the risk of lightning.

Tourism and activities near water bodies should also be regulated during the period of adverse weather, according to the advisory.

School holidays depend on local conditions

The weather conditions could also lead to closures of schools and colleges in districts affected by heavy or very heavy rain.

Educational institutions may remain closed on Thursday, August 13, or on subsequent days, including Friday, August 14, depending on local weather conditions and decisions by district authorities.

However, a holiday will be declared only through an official order issued by the concerned district collector or another competent authority.

Students and parents have therefore been advised to depend only on official government announcements and notices from their respective educational institutions for information about holidays or changes to class schedules.

Farmers asked to protect crops

Farmers have also been advised to take precautions against waterlogging and damage caused by strong winds and heavy rain.

Proper drainage should be maintained in paddy fields, arecanut plantations and ginger fields to prevent excess water from accumulating.

Banana plants and other vulnerable fruit trees should be provided with additional mechanical support or staking where necessary. This can help prevent plants from being uprooted or toppled during intense spells of rain.

Livestock should be moved to safe sheds and kept indoors during periods of particularly heavy rainfall.