Thiruvananthapuram, 31 May (H.S.): Widespread rainfall is expected to continue across Kerala, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a Yellow Alert for six districts on Sunday amid forecasts of isolated heavy showers accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning.

The districts placed under Yellow Alert are Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Kozhikode, Wayanad and Kannur. According to the IMD, heavy rainfall refers to precipitation ranging between 64.5 mm and 115.5 mm within a 24-hour period.

Authorities have urged residents in vulnerable areas to remain cautious as intermittent spells of rain and gusty winds are likely to affect several parts of the state over the next few days.

The IMD has also extended restrictions on fishing activities along the Kerala-Lakshadweep coast until June 3 due to rough sea conditions. However, fishing operations along the Karnataka coast are not expected to face disruptions.

Over the Kerala-Lakshadweep region, strong winds with speeds ranging from 35 kmph to 45 kmph, gusting up to 55 kmph, are likely until June 1, creating hazardous conditions at sea.

The weather agency has further warned of stronger winds across several maritime regions. Wind speeds of 45 kmph to 55 kmph, gusting up to 65 kmph, are expected over the north Arabian Sea, Gujarat coast, Oman coast, southwest Arabian Sea and the Somali coast.

Similarly, the southeast Arabian Sea and adjoining Maldives region are likely to experience winds of 35 kmph to 45 kmph, with gusts reaching 55 kmph.

Strong winds and rough weather conditions are also forecast over the Gulf of Mannar, Kanyakumari region, Tamil Nadu coast, Sri Lankan coast, Andhra Pradesh coast, southern Bay of Bengal, central-west Bay of Bengal, and the Andaman Sea, where wind speeds may reach 60 kmph at times.

The IMD has advised fishermen and coastal communities to strictly follow weather warnings and avoid venturing into the sea during the period.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman