Thiruvananthapuram, 11 May (H.S.): Kerala is likely to witness intensified summer rainfall over the next few days, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warning of isolated heavy showers, thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds across several parts of the state. The weather department has issued a yellow alert for three districts on Monday — Kollam, Pathanamthitta and Alappuzha — in view of the possibility of heavy rainfall.

According to the IMD, strong winds with speeds reaching up to 40 kmph are also likely in isolated areas. Authorities have advised people to remain cautious, particularly during thunderstorm activity and periods of gusty winds.

The IMD further stated that a low-pressure area is likely to form over the southwest Bay of Bengal within the next 48 hours. The development is being influenced by a cyclonic circulation prevailing over the Gulf of Mannar and adjoining Sri Lankan coast. Meteorologists said the evolving weather system is expected to strengthen rain activity over Kerala and neighbouring regions in the coming days.

In addition, a trough line extending from north Karnataka to the cyclonic circulation over the Gulf of Mannar, passing through south Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, is also contributing to the unstable weather conditions. Due to the combined impact of these systems, isolated heavy rainfall is expected to continue in Kerala until May 14.

The IMD has forecast widespread rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning in isolated places across Kerala and Mahe over the next five days. Strong winds blowing at speeds between 30 kmph and 50 kmph are also likely during this period.

For Tuesday, the weather department has issued rain warnings for four districts — Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam and Ernakulam. Disaster management authorities have urged fishermen, travellers and residents living in vulnerable areas to remain alert and follow official advisories as weather conditions may change rapidly.

Officials said localised flooding, uprooting of trees and traffic disruptions cannot be ruled out in areas receiving intense rainfall.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman