Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala is set to witness widespread rain activity over the next five days, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds across isolated parts of the state till Saturday.

According to the IMD, strong winds reaching speeds of 40-50 kmph are likely to accompany the rainfall.

Authorities have also issued a lightning warning, urging people to remain cautious as lightning strikes can cause serious damage to life, livestock, electrical appliances, and communication networks.

Weather officials said a low-pressure area persists over the southwest Bay of Bengal and is expected to intensify further within the next 48 hours.

In addition, an upper air cyclonic circulation has formed over south Karnataka at an altitude of 5.8 km above sea level, further strengthening rain activity over Kerala.

Heavy rainfall is likely at isolated places in the state from Thursday to Saturday.

The IMD has warned that Kerala and Mahe may continue to receive thunderstorms along with strong winds ranging between 30 and 50 kmph during the coming days.

Meanwhile, the southwest monsoon is expected to make further progress by the end of this week. Meteorologists said monsoon conditions are becoming favourable over parts of the south Bay of Bengal, the Andaman Sea, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

The weather department has advised residents to remain alert during thunderstorm activity and avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure during lightning. People have also been asked to unplug electrical appliances during intense weather conditions to prevent damage caused by lightning strikes.

With rain intensity expected to increase in the coming days, authorities are closely monitoring the evolving weather system across the region.