Thiruvananthapuram,01 May (H.S): Kerala is witnessing an intensification of summer rains, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing yellow alerts in several districts, warning of isolated heavy rainfall and adverse weather conditions over the next two days.

On Friday, yellow alerts have been sounded in four districts — Kottayam, Idukki, Malappuram, and Wayanad — indicating the likelihood of heavy rainfall at isolated locations. The situation is expected to worsen on Saturday, with as many as seven districts placed under yellow alert. These include Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Kozhikode, Wayanad, and Kannur.

According to the IMD, “heavy rainfall” refers to precipitation ranging between 64.5 mm and 115.5 mm within a 24-hour period. Such conditions could lead to localized flooding, waterlogging in low-lying areas, and disruptions to daily life, particularly in hilly and coastal regions.

In addition to heavy rains, the weather department has also warned of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of up to 50 kmph. These conditions raise the risk of damage to weak structures, uprooting of trees, and power disruptions.

Authorities have urged residents to exercise extreme caution, especially those living in vulnerable areas such as riverbanks, landslide-prone regions, and coastal belts. People have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense rainfall and to stay updated with official weather advisories.

Disaster management teams and local administrations are on alert to respond to any emergencies arising from the evolving weather situation.

With the monsoon-like conditions setting in early, officials are closely monitoring developments and coordinating preparedness measures to minimise potential risks to life and property.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman