Thiruvananthapuram, 01 July (H.S.): Heavy rainfall is expected to continue across Kerala on Wednesday, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing an Orange Alert for Kannur and Kasaragod districts, warning of the possibility of very heavy rain in isolated places.

A Yellow Alert has been issued for seven other districts — Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode and Wayanad — where moderate to heavy rainfall is likely.

According to the IMD, the prevailing weather conditions are being driven by a trough of low pressure extending from the Maharashtra coast to the north Kerala coast, which is expected to sustain widespread rainfall across the state over the next few days.

As a precautionary measure, district authorities have declared a holiday for all educational institutions in Kannur and Kasaragod on Wednesday in view of the forecast of intense rainfall and the possibility of waterlogging and related disruptions.

The weather office has forecast that widespread rain will continue across Kerala at least until Saturday. Yellow Alerts have been issued for three districts on Thursday, seven districts on Friday and nine districts on Saturday, indicating the likelihood of heavy rainfall in several parts of the state.

The IMD has also warned of isolated thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and strong surface winds with speeds ranging between 40 and 50 kmph until July 2. Residents have been advised to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense rain and follow instructions issued by local authorities.

Meanwhile, a fishing ban remains in force along the Kerala and Lakshadweep coasts until July 2 due to rough sea conditions. Fishermen have also been advised not to venture into the Karnataka coast until July 3, as adverse weather and high waves are expected to make sea conditions unsafe.

Authorities have urged the public, particularly those living in low-lying and landslide-prone areas, to exercise caution and closely monitor official weather updates.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman