Thiruvananthapuram, 17 March (H.S.):Kerala is likely to receive widespread rainfall until Friday under the combined influence of two cyclonic circulations and multiple low-pressure troughs, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has said, urging residents to remain cautious.

According to the IMD, isolated places across the State may experience thunderstorms accompanied by lightning until Wednesday. Authorities have advised the public to exercise vigilance, particularly during evening and night hours when such weather activity is more likely.

Meteorologists said a cyclonic circulation has formed over the southeast Arabian Sea, close to the Lakshadweep coast, while another is positioned over the north Tamil Nadu coastal region. These systems are contributing to atmospheric instability over Kerala and adjoining areas.

In addition, a low-pressure trough extends from the southwest Bay of Bengal to the north Sri Lankan coast, passing through the Gulf of Mannar and stretching up to Kanyakumari. Another trough runs from the interior parts of north Karnataka through south Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, reaching the southern tip of the peninsula.

The interaction of these weather systems is expected to enhance moisture inflow and trigger rainfall activity across Kerala over the next few days. While no extreme weather alerts have been issued so far, officials cautioned that localized heavy showers and lightning could occur in some regions.

Fishermen have also been advised to stay alert, especially along the Lakshadweep and south Kerala coasts, where sea conditions may become rough intermittently.

The IMD said it is closely monitoring the evolving weather systems and will issue further updates as necessary. Residents are encouraged to follow official advisories and take precautionary measures to avoid risks associated with thunderstorms and lightning.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman