Thiruvananthapuram,06 Oct (H.S.):

Nine districts in Kerala have been placed under a yellow alert for isolated heavy rain on Tuesday as two cyclonic circulations and a trough influence weather conditions across the state, according to the India Meteorological Department.

The warning covers Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode and Wayanad. The forecast indicates that some locations in these districts could receive heavy rainfall, although the intensity and distribution may vary.

The IMD classifies rainfall ranging from 64.5 mm to 115.5 mm within 24 hours as heavy rain. A yellow alert signals the need to remain attentive to weather developments.

Rainfall could be accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds reaching speeds of 40–50 kilometres per hour. These conditions could affect outdoor activities and travel in areas experiencing intense showers.

One cyclonic circulation lies over the southeastern Arabian Sea near the southern Kerala coast, at an altitude of 5.8 kilometres above sea level. Another circulation persists over northern Tamil Nadu at the same altitude.

A trough extends from the Gulf of Mannar to central Maharashtra through Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, approximately 0.9 kilometres above sea level. The combined influence of these systems is expected to sustain rainy conditions over Kerala through Saturday.

The forecast also points to another spell of heavier rain later in the week. Further yellow alerts mentioned in the bulletin cover Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Malappuram and Wayanad during one spell, followed by warnings for Pathanamthitta, Kottayam and Idukki during another.

However, the supplied bulletin contains conflicting references to the days on which these subsequent alerts apply. The district warnings for Tuesday are clearly stated, while the later schedule requires clarification.

Residents should follow updated IMD bulletins and district administration advisories, particularly before planning travel or outdoor work in places where thunderstorms and heavy showers are forecast.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman