Heavy rains are lashing several parts of Kerala, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue an orange alert for three districts. Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and Pathanamthitta, the three southernmost districts of Kerala, are under the orange alert due to the heavy downpour and thunderstorms. The weather agency has predicted very heavy rainfall ranging from 11 to 20 cm, accompanied by strong winds reaching speeds of up to 50 kmph in these districts.
The IMD has also issued a yellow alert for several other districts, including Alappuzha, Kottayam and Idukki, indicating the possibility of thunderstorms, moderate rainfall, and strong winds.
An orange alert signifies the likelihood of very heavy rainfall, between 115.6 mm to 204.4 mm within 24 hours. The IMD has also forecast thunderstorms across Kerala until October 19. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected at isolated places in Kerala on October 16 and 17. Thunderstorms, accompanied by lightning and gusty winds with speeds of 30–40 kmph, are likely over Kerala and Lakshadweep between October 15 and 19.
The heavy rains are expected to intensify as the southwest monsoon withdraws from India, and the northeast monsoon commences over the southeast peninsular region, including Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Lakshadweep. The IMD anticipates that the withdrawal of the southwest monsoon will be complete by October 16.
Light to moderate rainfall has been occurring in isolated parts of Kerala since October 12, influenced by a cyclonic circulation over the southeast Arabian Sea and the adjoining Lakshadweep region.
In light of the adverse weather conditions, the IMD has cautioned fishermen against venturing into the sea off the coasts of Kerala, Karnataka, and Lakshadweep until October 19. The weather department has predicted squally weather with wind speeds reaching up to 50 km/h along these coasts.
The District Collector of Thiruvananthapuram has declared a holiday for educational institutions, including professional colleges, in the district. The IMD has advised the public to take precautions during thunderstorms, such as staying indoors, unplugging electrical appliances, and avoiding contact with walls and floors. It is also advised to avoid standing under trees during thunderstorms.
