Thiruvananthapuram, 22 June (H.S.): The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast widespread rainfall across Kerala on Monday, prompting authorities to issue a Yellow Alert in eight districts and caution fishermen against venturing into the sea due to rough weather conditions.

According to the IMD, heavy rainfall is likely in Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod districts. The weather agency has predicted rainfall ranging between 64.5 mm and 115.5 mm within 24 hours in isolated locations across these districts.

The IMD has also warned of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of up to 50 kmph in isolated areas. Residents in vulnerable regions have been advised to remain alert and follow instructions issued by local authorities.

The adverse weather conditions are expected to continue over the next 24 hours. A Yellow Alert has also been issued for Kannur and Kasaragod districts on Tuesday, indicating the likelihood of heavy rainfall in those areas as well.

Fishermen Warned

The IMD has reiterated its warning to fishermen, advising them not to venture into the sea along the Kerala and Lakshadweep coasts on Monday due to rough sea conditions and strong winds.

Wind speeds of 40 to 50 kmph, gusting up to 60 kmph, are likely over the Kerala-Lakshadweep coast, creating hazardous conditions for fishing activities and small vessels.

The weather agency has also forecast strong winds over several parts of the Arabian Sea, including the Somalia coast, northern Oman coast, adjoining north-west Arabian Sea, south-west Arabian Sea and central-west Arabian Sea, where wind speeds may reach 45 to 55 kmph and occasionally touch 65 kmph.

Similarly, rough weather is expected over the Tamil Nadu coast, Gulf of Mannar, adjoining Kanyakumari region, south-west Bay of Bengal and areas off the Sri Lankan coast, with winds likely to blow at 40 to 50 kmph, gusting up to 60 kmph.

For Tuesday, strong winds of up to 65 kmph are expected over parts of the Arabian Sea, while the south Tamil Nadu coast and Gulf of Mannar are also likely to experience rough sea conditions.

Authorities have urged fishermen, coastal residents and those planning marine activities to strictly adhere to weather advisories until conditions improve.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman