Thiruvananthapuram, 11 July (H.S.):Kerala is set to witness widespread rain and thundershowers until July 16, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday warning of strong surface winds and an increased risk of landslides in vulnerable hilly regions.
The IMD has forecast rain or thundershowers at most places across the state during the next six days as the southwest monsoon continues to remain active over Kerala. The weather agency also warned that surface winds could occasionally reach speeds of 40-50 kmph, raising the possibility of uprooted trees, damage to power lines and disruptions to transport and electricity supply.
The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) said light to moderate rainfall, accompanied by winds of up to 40 kmph, is likely across the state over the next few hours from Saturday morning. It urged people to remain alert, particularly in areas vulnerable to flooding and landslides.
Amid rising inflow into reservoirs following heavy rainfall in the catchment areas, the Wayanad district administration announced that three shutters of the Karapuzha Dam would be opened by 10 cm at 11 am on Saturday to regulate the water level. Residents living downstream have been advised to exercise caution.
According to the IMD, the southwest monsoon remained normal over Kerala during the past 24 hours, with rainfall reported from most parts of the state and many places in Lakshadweep.
Mahe and Ayyankunnu in Kannur district recorded the highest rainfall of 5 cm each during the period. Kayamkulam in Alappuzha district, Kollengode, Palluruthy in Ernakulam and Neriamangalam also received significant rainfall of around 4 cm each.
Thiruvananthapuram city and adjoining areas are expected to experience generally cloudy skies with intermittent spells of rain or thundershowers throughout Saturday.
The IMD said sea conditions along the Kerala coast are expected to remain normal, and no warning has been issued for fishermen at present.
Authorities, however, cautioned that the continuing rainfall could lead to waterlogging in low-lying areas, poor visibility, traffic disruptions and localised flooding. Strong winds may also affect power supply by damaging electric lines and uprooting trees, while standing crops nearing harvest could suffer damage due to the persistent wet weather.
The disaster management authorities have advised the public to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary travel to landslide-prone areas during periods of intense rainfall, and follow official advisories issued by local administrations.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
