Thiruvananthapuram, 09 August (H.S.):

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Sunday afternoon revised its rainfall warning for Kerala, expanding the alert to seven districts as a low-pressure system continues to influence weather conditions over the state.

The earlier forecast had indicated heavy rain mainly in the northern districts. However, according to the revised warning, isolated heavy rainfall is now expected in parts of Pathanamthitta, Kottayam and Idukki, in addition to the northern districts of Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod.

A yellow alert has been issued for all seven districts for Sunday, advising residents and local authorities to remain vigilant, particularly in areas vulnerable to waterlogging, landslides and other rain-related disruptions.

The weather outlook is expected to improve from Monday, with the IMD forecasting no heavy rainfall warning for any district in Kerala. Light to moderate rainfall is, however, likely to continue at isolated places across the state from Monday through Thursday.

The weather department has also warned that thunderstorms and heavy spells of rain could be accompanied by strong surface winds reaching speeds of 40 to 50 kmph at isolated places. People have been advised to exercise caution during periods of intense rain and gusty winds.

The prevailing weather conditions are being attributed to a low-pressure area that has formed over the southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining regions. The system, along with associated atmospheric circulation, is influencing rainfall activity over Kerala.

While the intensity of rainfall is expected to ease from Monday, intermittent showers are likely to persist during the next few days. Authorities are expected to closely monitor weather conditions, particularly in hilly districts where prolonged or intense rainfall can increase the risk of landslides.

The IMD has advised the public to keep track of updated weather forecasts and warnings as conditions could change depending on the movement and development of the low-pressure system.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman