Thiruvananthapuram, 13 August (H.S.):Rainfall is expected to intensify again across Kerala, with the India Meteorological Department forecasting isolated heavy showers in several districts on Thursday and Friday.

Kannur and Kasaragod have been placed under a yellow alert for Thursday following the forecast of heavy rain at isolated places. Light to moderate rainfall is also likely across all districts during the day.

On Friday, isolated heavy rain is expected in Pathanamthitta, Kottayam and Idukki districts. Yellow alerts have been issued for the three districts, advising residents and local authorities to remain vigilant.

The renewed spell comes after rainfall weakened across Kerala over the past few days. The State had earlier experienced a week of persistent heavy rain, which caused flooding, landslides and disruptions in several areas.

Meanwhile, the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services has warned of possible coastal flooding and sea erosion due to the ‘Kallakkadal’ phenomenon, characterised by sudden swells generated by distant ocean storms.

High waves ranging from one metre to 1.6 metres were forecast along the coasts of Thiruvananthapuram, from Kappil to Pozhiyoor; Kollam, from Alappad to Edava; Alappuzha, from Chellanam to Azhikkal Jetty; Ernakulam, from Munambam to Maruvakkad; and Thrissur, from Attupuram to Kodungallur.

Along the Kanyakumari coast in neighbouring Tamil Nadu, waves measuring between 1.3 metres and 1.7 metres were also forecast. The warning remained valid until 5.30 am on Thursday.

Fishermen and coastal residents have been advised to exercise caution because of the possibility of rough seas, strong waves and seawater entering low-lying coastal areas. Authorities urged people to avoid beaches and refrain from undertaking activities close to the shoreline during periods of high waves. Fishing vessels should be securely anchored, while boats must maintain a safe distance from one another to prevent collisions.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman