Weather Update: As a cyclonic circulation over the Arabian Sea is likely to intensify weather activity in the region, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Sunday, October 12, has forecast widespread rainfall in Kerala. The department has warned that light to heavy rain, thundershowers and winds with speeds reaching 30-40 kmph are likely over Kerala and Mahe between October 11 and 15.
Due to the possibility of heavy rains in the state, a yellow alert has been issued in many districts for the coming days. Pathanamthitta, Idukki, Palakkad, Malappuram and Wayanad are on alert on Sunday (October 12), where rainfall ranging from 64.5 mm to 115.5 mm is expected within 24 hours.
“Heavy rainfall (7-11 cm in 24 hours) is very likely to occur at one or two places in Kerala from October 12 to 17,” the IMD stated.
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It also warned that similar conditions are likely to occur in Lakshadweep on October 11 and 12, with thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds. The northeast monsoon, which usually hits Kerala by mid-October, is likely to begin later this month, further increasing rainfall activity in the state.
Due to rough sea conditions, the IMD has banned fishing activities along the Kerala and Karnataka coasts on Sunday. It has also been banned in Lakshadweep and adjoining Kanyakumari areas, where wind speeds could reach up to 55 kmph.
According to the IMD, yellow alerts have been issued in the following districts:
- Pathanamthitta, Idukki, Palakkad, Malappuram, and Wayanad on October 12;
- Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, and Wayanad on October 13;
- Pathanamthitta and Kottayam on October 14; and
- Ernakulam and Idukki on October 15.
Authorities have warned the public about possible landslides, mudslides and flash floods in mountainous areas.
The IMD has warned of traffic jams due to poor visibility and waterlogging, temporary road blockages due to fallen trees and power supply disruptions. Weak structures and dilapidated houses may be damaged, while heavy rains may destroy standing crops and vegetables in their mature stage.
People have been advised to stay indoors during lightning, avoid open fields and be vigilant in low-lying and landslide-prone areas as Kerala braces for another round of intense monsoon activity.
