Thiruvananthapuram, 19 May (H.S.):Kerala is likely to witness heavy rainfall on Monday, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a yellow alert for nine districts across the state. Weather officials have also warned of strong winds and thunderstorms accompanying the rainfall activity.

The districts placed under yellow alert are Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Kannur and Kasaragod. According to meteorological authorities, rainfall intensity is expected to increase particularly in the southern and northern parts of the state.

Officials have cautioned residents to remain vigilant as changing weather conditions could lead to localised disruptions, including waterlogging, reduced visibility and traffic difficulties in low-lying areas. Thunderstorms and gusty winds are also expected to accompany the rain in several regions.

Meanwhile, the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) has issued a “Kallakkadal” or swell wave warning for coastal areas of northern Kerala. The phenomenon refers to unusually high sea waves generated by distant weather systems, which can trigger sea surges and coastal flooding even under relatively calm local weather conditions.

As part of the warning, coastal stretches in Kannur district — from Valapattanam to New Mahe — and in Kasaragod district — from Kunjathur to Kottakkunnu — have been placed under alert.

According to the advisory, there is a possibility of sea incursion due to waves rising between 0.9 metres and 1.0 metre in height from 8.30 a.m. on May 19 until 2.30 p.m. on May 20.

Authorities have advised fishermen, coastal residents and people living near vulnerable shoreline areas to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary movement close to the sea during the warning period. Local administrations are expected to closely monitor the situation as weather conditions evolve.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman