Thiruvananthapuram, 27 July (H.S.) :The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast widespread rain across Kerala on Monday, with heavy showers expected to affect the northern districts as weather systems over eastern and western India continue to strengthen. Five districts in north Kerala have been placed under a Yellow Alert, warning of the possibility of isolated heavy rainfall.
The Yellow Alert has been issued for Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod districts. The IMD said these areas are likely to receive intense spells of rain during the day, prompting authorities and the public to remain cautious, particularly in low-lying and landslide-prone regions.
According to the weather department, the low-pressure area that developed over the northwestern Bay of Bengal and adjoining north Odisha–West Bengal coast has intensified into a depression. The system is expected to move northwestwards over the next 24 hours and strengthen further into a deep depression before making landfall between Paradip in Odisha and Sagar Island in West Bengal later on Monday.
Meanwhile, another low-pressure system continues to persist over western Rajasthan and adjoining areas. The combined influence of these weather systems is expected to enhance moisture inflow over Kerala, leading to increased rainfall activity across the State over the next few days.
The IMD has forecast isolated heavy rainfall in Kerala until July 30. In addition to heavy showers, isolated thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of up to 40 kmph are also likely in several parts of the State.
Authorities have advised residents to remain alert, especially in areas vulnerable to flooding, waterlogging and landslides. People have been urged to avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense rainfall, follow official weather updates and take adequate precautions against lightning and strong winds as the wet spell is expected to continue through the week.
---------------
Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
