Thiruvananthapuram, 18 Oct (H.S.): Isolated heavy rain is likely to continue across Kerala on Sunday, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warning that showers could intensify in northern districts. A yellow alert has been issued for Kasaragod, Kannur, Wayanad, Kozhikode and Malappuram.

The weather department has also forecast thunderstorms accompanied by lightning at isolated places. Strong winds reaching speeds of up to 40 kmph are likely alongside the showers, prompting calls for caution in areas experiencing adverse weather.

The rain warning will extend to more districts on Monday. Thrissur and Palakkad will join Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod on the yellow alert list, taking the number of districts under the advisory to seven.

The alerts indicate the possibility of isolated heavy rainfall, with northern Kerala remaining the main area of concern over the two days. Residents have been advised to remain attentive to weather updates as thunderstorms and gusty winds could accompany the rain.

Meanwhile, the IMD has warned fishermen against venturing into the sea along the Kerala, Karnataka and Lakshadweep coasts on Sunday, October 18, citing strong winds and rough weather.

Wind speeds over these coastal waters are expected to range between 35 and 45 kmph, occasionally reaching 55 kmph. The combination of gusty winds and adverse weather is expected to make conditions unsafe for fishing operations.

The advisory covers all three coastal stretches, and fishermen have been asked to refrain from fishing in the affected waters during the warning period.

While the land-based forecast points to isolated spells of heavy rain, the marine warning highlights the risk posed by stronger winds offshore. Coastal communities and fishing crews should take note of the separate sea-weather restrictions.

With rain alerts continuing into Monday, residents in the notified districts should follow subsequent IMD bulletins for any revision to the rainfall forecast and related weather advisories.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman