Thiruvananthapuram, 18 September (H.S.): Kerala is likely to experience isolated heavy rainfall and thunderstorms on Friday, with the India Meteorological Department issuing a yellow alert for Alappuzha, Kottayam and Idukki districts.

The weather agency has forecast isolated rainfall ranging from 64.5 mm to 115.5 mm within 24 hours, which is classified as heavy rain. Residents in vulnerable areas have been advised to remain alert, particularly during thunderstorms and intense spells of rain.

Meanwhile, the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority has issued a ‘Kallakkadal’ warning for the coastlines of Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam districts following a forecast of unusually high waves and possible coastal flooding.

Waves ranging from 0.8 metres to 1.4 metres are expected along the Thiruvananthapuram coast, from Kappil to Pozhiyoor, and the Kollam coast, from Alappad to Edava. The warning will remain in force from 11.30 pm on Friday until 11.30 pm on Saturday.

The National Centre for Ocean Information Services has also predicted waves between 1.2 metres and 1.7 metres along the Kanyakumari coast from 8.30 pm on Friday to 11.30 am on Saturday. Fishermen and coastal residents have been urged to exercise caution because of the possibility of sea erosion and flooding in low-lying coastal areas.

A separate advisory has warned fishermen against venturing into the Andaman Sea and the southeast Bay of Bengal until September 21.

Squally winds reaching speeds of 45 kmph to 55 kmph, and occasionally touching 65 kmph, are likely over the Andaman Sea. The southeast Bay of Bengal and adjoining areas could experience winds of 40 kmph to 50 kmph, gusting up to 60 kmph.

Authorities have asked fishing vessels to avoid the affected waters during the warning period and advised coastal communities to follow official safety instructions.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman