Thiruvananthapuram, 14 August (H.S):Rain is expected to continue across Kerala, with the India Meteorological Department issuing a yellow alert for six districts on Friday.

The alert is in force in Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam and Thrissur districts. The weather agency has forecast isolated heavy rainfall in these areas.

According to the IMD, heavy rainfall refers to precipitation ranging from 64.5 mm to 115.5 mm within 24 hours. Residents, particularly those living in low-lying areas and places vulnerable to flooding and landslides, have been advised to remain vigilant.

The wet spell is associated with a weather system over eastern India. A low-pressure area that had formed over West Bengal, Bangladesh and the northwestern Bay of Bengal has intensified into a well-marked low-pressure system over the West Bengal coast.

Kerala is likely to receive light to moderate rainfall at several places until August 17 under the influence of the system.

The IMD has also warned of strong winds and rough weather across several parts of the Bay of Bengal. Wind speeds of 45 to 55 kmph, occasionally reaching 65 kmph, are likely along the West Bengal, Odisha and Bangladesh coasts and over the adjoining northwestern and northeastern Bay of Bengal.

Squally weather, with winds of 40 to 50 kmph and gusts reaching 60 kmph, is expected along the northern and adjoining southern Andhra Pradesh coasts. Similar conditions are likely over the Bangladesh coast, northeastern Bay of Bengal, west-central and east-central Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea.

Fishermen have been advised not to venture into these areas on Friday because of the possibility of strong winds, high waves and deteriorating sea conditions.

Authorities have urged fishing communities to follow weather bulletins and safety instructions. People in rain-affected districts have also been asked to exercise caution near rivers, hilly areas and waterlogged roads.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman