Thiruvananthapuram, 25 August (H.S.):The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast widespread heavy rain across Kerala on Tuesday and Wednesday, prompting authorities to issue yellow alerts in several districts.

Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Malappuram, Kozhikode and Wayanad have been placed under a yellow alert on Tuesday. Rain is expected to continue on Wednesday, when alerts will remain in force in Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Ernakulam and Idukki districts.

The prevailing wet weather has been attributed to a low-pressure area over Gangetic West Bengal and adjoining parts of Jharkhand and northern Odisha. Under its influence, rainfall is likely to continue in Kerala until Friday.

According to the IMD, heavy rainfall refers to precipitation ranging between 64.5 mm and 115.5 mm within 24 hours.

The weather agency has also warned that isolated parts of Kerala could experience strong winds with speeds ranging from 40 kmph to 50 kmph until Wednesday. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea along the Kerala, Karnataka and Lakshadweep coasts during this period.

Squally weather, with wind speeds of 35 kmph to 45 kmph and gusts touching 55 kmph, is likely to prevail over these coastal areas until Wednesday.

The State Disaster Management Authority has urged people living in areas vulnerable to landslides, mudslides and flash floods to move to safer locations if directed by officials.

Residents along riverbanks and in areas downstream of dams have also been advised to remain vigilant and relocate in advance if necessary.

People in disaster-prone regions should identify the nearest relief camps and move there during daylight hours, rather than waiting for conditions to worsen. They have been asked to contact local body and Revenue Department officials for information regarding relief camps, evacuation assistance and other safety arrangements. They should also monitor official weather bulletins and avoid unnecessary travel during intense rainfall.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman