Thiruvannthapuram, 24 Sept (H.S.): Five districts in northern Kerala are under a yellow alert on Thursday as the state braces for isolated heavy rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said.

The alert covers Kasaragod, Kannur, Wayanad, Kozhikode and Malappuram. Winds accompanying thunderstorms could reach 40 kmph in isolated areas, the department warned.

The rain is linked to a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal. The IMD expects isolated heavy showers in Kerala through September 25, while thunderstorms and winds of 30 to 40 kmph may occur at isolated places through September 26.

The warning will expand to eight districts on Friday. Yellow alerts have been issued for Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod.

Fishermen have been advised against venturing into the sea off the Kerala, Karnataka and Lakshadweep coasts on Thursday. Winds of 35 to 45 kmph, gusting to 55 kmph, and rough weather are expected in these waters.

Conditions are also expected to be hazardous off the Tamil Nadu coast. Winds along the northern coast could reach 45 to 55 kmph, with gusts of 65 kmph. The southern coast, the Gulf of Mannar and waters near Kanyakumari could experience winds of 40 to 50 kmph, gusting to 60 kmph.

The strongest winds are forecast over the west-central Bay of Bengal and adjoining northwest Bay, where speeds may reach 55 to 65 kmph and gusts 75 kmph. The conditions are expected to persist until Thursday evening before gradually easing.

Parts of the northern and southern Bay of Bengal could see winds of 50 to 60 kmph, gusting to 70 kmph, until Thursday evening. Residents in areas under alert have been urged to monitor official weather updates and take care during thunderstorms.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman