Thiruvananthapuram, 2 Dec (H.S.): The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast persistent heavy rainfall across several parts of Kerala this week, with isolated downpours likely to continue until Saturday. A yellow alert was issued on Tuesday for Pathanamthitta, Ernakulam, and Idukki districts in light of the prevailing weather conditions.
According to the IMD, thunderstorms accompanied by lightning are “very likely” to occur at one or two locations across the state between December 3 and 6. Similar conditions are also expected over Lakshadweep on December 4 and 5. Officials have urged residents to remain vigilant, particularly in hilly areas prone to landslips and flash floods.With the annual Sabarimala pilgrimage season under way, authorities have advised devotees to take precautions as light to moderate showers are expected at Pampa, Nilakkal, and Sannidhanam on Tuesday. The advisory comes amid a steady rise in pilgrim arrivals for the ongoing Mandalam–Makaravilakku season.
The weather office has further issued a yellow alert for seven districts on Wednesday — Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Palakkad, and Malappuram — as the northeast monsoon remains active. Meteorologists indicated that the seasonal rains are likely to withdraw only by the end of December.
Meanwhile, neighbouring Tamil Nadu continues to experience the aftereffects of Cyclone Ditwah. Chennai and adjoining districts have received uninterrupted rainfall since Monday, leading to extensive waterlogging on arterial roads, highways, and several low-lying residential zones. With a deep depression persisting over the north Tamil Nadu and south Andhra Pradesh coasts, the IMD has declared a red alert for Chennai.
The severe weather has also caused substantial agricultural damage. In Mayiladuthurai district, strong winds associated with the cyclone uprooted hundreds of banana trees, destroying vast portions of standing crops just weeks before the expected harvest. Local farmers said the loss has deepened the region’s financial distress.
Authorities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu have deployed disaster management teams and are closely monitoring rainfall intensity, river levels, and vulnerable areas. Citizens have been advised to follow official safety instructions, remain indoors during heavy rainfall, and avoid non-essential travel in affected regions.
Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman