Thiruvananthapuram, 29 July (H.S.):

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Wednesday upgraded its rain forecast for Kerala, warning of isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall across the State from Wednesday through Sunday under the influence of an extremely severe low-pressure system near Odisha.

The revised weather bulletin marks a significant change from the earlier forecast, which had not predicted very heavy rainfall in any district. With the latest update, the IMD has issued Orange Alerts for several districts on different days, indicating the likelihood of very heavy rain and the need for heightened vigilance.

For Wednesday, Orange Alerts have been issued for Idukki, Wayanad and Kannur, where isolated places are expected to receive very heavy rainfall. On Thursday, the warning has been extended to Kozhikode, Wayanad and Kannur. On Friday, Orange Alerts will be in force for Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Kannur and Kasaragod, while on Saturday the alert covers Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki and Ernakulam.

According to the IMD, very heavy rainfall refers to precipitation ranging between 115.6 mm and 204.4 mm within a 24-hour period. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning are also expected in many parts of the State during this period.

In addition to the Orange Alerts, the IMD has issued Yellow Alerts for Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode and Kasaragod on Wednesday, warning of heavy rainfall.

With the revised forecast, rain warnings are now in effect for all districts except Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam and Alappuzha on Wednesday.

Authorities have urged the public to remain alert, particularly in districts under Orange Alert, as intense rainfall could lead to waterlogging, flash floods, landslides in vulnerable hilly regions and disruptions to normal life. Residents have been advised to closely follow official weather updates and comply with instructions issued by local authorities and disaster management agencies.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman