Kerala is bracing for another spell of widespread rainfall from Thursday, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting intensified showers across central and northern parts of the state over the next 48 hours.
The weather department has warned that active monsoon conditions could trigger heavy to very heavy rainfall in several districts, prompting authorities to step up preparedness measures. While the rain may disrupt normal life in some areas, it is also expected to replenish rivers, reservoirs and groundwater following recent dry spells.
Read more - Delhi Weather Today: Heavy rainfall to continue; check which parts of the city will be hit till August 10
IMD issues orange alert for seven Kerala districts
The IMD has placed seven districts under an orange alert, indicating the likelihood of heavy to very heavy rainfall.
Read more - Gurgaon Weather Today: Yellow alert in Gurugram as IMD forecasts heavy rain
The districts under the orange alert are:
- Kasaragod
- Kannur
- Ernakulam
- Idukki
- Kottayam
- Alappuzha
- Pathanamthitta
The remaining seven districts are under a yellow alert, with moderate to heavy rainfall and thunderstorms expected.
Northern Kerala may witness extremely heavy rainfall
According to the IMD, rainfall is expected to intensify further on Friday, with northern Kerala likely to receive extremely heavy showers.
Residents living in hilly, low-lying and landslide-prone areas have been advised to remain vigilant and follow instructions issued by local authorities.
Schools and colleges closed in several areas
As a precaution, educational institutions will remain closed on Thursday in:
- Kottayam taluk
- Thiruvalla taluk in Pathanamthitta
- Kuttanad, Chengannur and Karthikappally taluks in Alappuzha
In addition, schools and colleges functioning as relief camps in Wayanad, Kozhikode, Idukki, Kottayam, Thrissur, Alappuzha and Pathanamthitta have also been declared closed to support relief operations.
Disaster management teams remain on alert
State disaster management authorities said district administrations, emergency response teams and local bodies are on high alert as the rain intensifies.
Officials are continuously monitoring river levels, vulnerable locations and flood-prone areas to respond quickly if the weather situation worsens.
People have been urged to avoid unnecessary travel to high-range areas and to follow official advisories throughout the period of heavy rainfall.
INCOIS issues Kallakkadal warning for Kerala coast
The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) has also issued a 'Kallakkadal' (swell surge) warning for parts of the Kerala coastline.
High waves measuring 1.1 to 1.4 metres are expected along the coasts of:
- Thiruvananthapuram
- Kollam
- Alappuzha
The warning remains in effect until 11.30 pm on Thursday.
Fishermen and coastal residents have been advised to stay away from vulnerable shorelines and avoid venturing into rough sea conditions.
Authorities urge residents to stay cautious
With the southwest monsoon remaining active across Kerala, authorities have appealed to the public to remain alert, cooperate with emergency officials and monitor weather updates.
Timely precautions, especially in flood- and landslide-prone areas, will be essential as the state prepares for another round of heavy monsoon rainfall.
