The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Friday issued fresh weather alerts for Kerala, warning of widespread rain across the state over the coming week. Heavy rain, thunderstorms and strong winds are expected in several districts.

For Friday, June 26, a yellow alert has been issued for Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Kannur and Kasaragod. The IMD said these districts could receive isolated heavy rainfall of 64.5 mm to 115.5 mm in 24 hours. Thunderstorms are also likely.

The warning will cover more districts over the weekend. On Sunday, June 28, a yellow alert will be in place for Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, Kasaragod and Pathanamthitta.

The weather department also said temperatures in some parts of Kerala have been higher than normal for this time of the year.

Orange alert for northern Kerala

Rain is expected to become heavier early next week.

The IMD has issued an orange alert for Kozhikode, Kannur and Kasaragod on Monday, June 29. Wayanad will also come under an orange alert on Tuesday, June 30.

An orange alert means very heavy rainfall of 115.6 mm to 204.4 mm in 24 hours. Thunderstorms and lightning are also expected.

Strong winds with speeds of 40 to 50 kmph, and gusts reaching up to 60 kmph, are likely between June 26 and June 30.

The IMD has also warned that a few places could receive extremely heavy rain during the last days of June.

Schools may close if local authorities order

The IMD said the weather could disrupt normal life, including the functioning of schools and colleges.

Educational institutions in areas affected by heavy or very heavy rain may be closed if district authorities issue orders based on local conditions.

Students and parents have been advised to follow updates only from district collectors and official notices issued by schools and colleges regarding closures or timetable changes.

Fishermen told not to venture into the sea

The IMD has advised fishermen not to go into the Arabian Sea along and off the Kerala coast from Saturday, June 27, to July 1 due to rough weather.

People have also been asked to keep track of official weather updates. During lightning, they should stay inside safe buildings and avoid open areas.

Farmers asked to take precautions

The weather could also affect farming in many parts of the state.

Farmers have been advised to remove excess water from fields growing banana, coconut, cardamom, ginger and black pepper. They should also give extra support to banana plants and strengthen vegetable crop structures to reduce damage from strong winds and heavy rain.

The IMD has advised farmers not to transplant paddy while heavy rain continues, as young plants may be damaged.