Thiruvananthapuram, 18 May (H.S.): The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for eight districts in Kerala on Monday, warning of heavy rainfall and strong winds in several parts of the state. Authorities have also urged residents living in vulnerable areas to remain alert and take precautionary measures in view of the weather conditions.

The districts placed under yellow alert are Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad and Malappuram. According to weather officials, northern Kerala is expected to receive heavy rainfall on Tuesday, prompting yellow alerts for Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod districts.

The State Disaster Management Authority has cautioned people living in areas prone to landslides, mudslides and flash floods to remain vigilant and strictly follow instructions issued by authorities. Residents in such high-risk locations have been advised to move to safer places if required and avoid waiting until conditions worsen.

People residing near riverbanks and in low-lying areas downstream of dams have also been asked to stay cautious and relocate if local authorities issue warnings. Officials stressed that residents in disaster-prone areas should confirm whether relief camps have been opened in their localities and shift to those facilities during daytime itself to avoid risks associated with sudden weather changes.

Authorities said local self-government bodies and revenue officials could be contacted for assistance regarding evacuation and relief arrangements.

The warning also highlighted the possibility of strong winds causing trees to be uprooted and electric poles or structures to collapse, posing additional hazards to the public. Residents living in houses with weak roofs or structures that are not securely built have been asked to exercise extra caution and consider moving temporarily to safer locations if they feel threatened.

The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority has further urged the public to follow safety guidelines issued for strong wind conditions and remain updated on weather advisories.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman