Thiruvananthapuram, 24 May (H.S.): Heavy rainfall continued across Kerala on Sunday, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue an Orange Alert for Ernakulam district and weather warnings for 12 districts across the state. Authorities have cautioned residents to remain vigilant as intense rain activity is expected to persist over the next four days.

According to the IMD, rainfall is likely to intensify in almost all districts except Palakkad and Wayanad. The persistent downpour has already begun affecting water levels in rivers and reservoirs, leading officials to take precautionary measures.

In response to rising water levels, the shutters of the Bhoothathankettu barrage have been opened in a controlled manner to regulate the flow of water. District authorities stated that the move was purely precautionary and aimed at maintaining safe water levels in the region.

The weather department has forecast widespread rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds in isolated places across Kerala from Sunday until May 28. Wind speeds are expected to range between 40 and 50 kmph and could occasionally reach up to 60 kmph in certain areas.

For Monday, Yellow Alerts have been issued for Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Malappuram, Kozhikode and Wayanad districts, indicating the possibility of heavy rainfall at isolated locations.

Authorities have also issued warnings to coastal communities and fishermen. The IMD has advised fishermen not to venture into the Kerala, Karnataka and Lakshadweep coasts until Thursday due to the likelihood of rough sea conditions and strong winds.

Officials said adverse weather conditions over the Arabian Sea region could create dangerous conditions for fishing activities and marine travel. Coastal residents have also been asked to remain alert and follow official advisories.

With rainfall expected to continue over the coming days, disaster management agencies and district administrations have intensified monitoring and preparedness measures to respond to any weather-related emergencies.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman