Thiruvananthapuram, 28 June (H.S.):The southwest monsoon has intensified once again across Kerala, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places across the State until Wednesday. Authorities have issued rain alerts for all 14 districts, warning residents to remain vigilant as the wet spell is expected to continue over the coming days.

On Sunday, the heaviest rainfall is expected in the northern districts of Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod, prompting the IMD to issue an Orange Alert for these regions, indicating the likelihood of very heavy rainfall. The remaining ten districts have been placed under a Yellow Alert, signalling the possibility of heavy rain at isolated locations.

The adverse weather conditions are expected to persist on Monday, with Kannur and Kasaragod continuing under an Orange Alert due to the forecast of very heavy rainfall. Yellow Alerts have been issued for all other districts except Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha and Kottayam, where rainfall is expected to be comparatively less intense.

In addition to heavy rain, the IMD has warned of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds with speeds ranging between 40 and 50 kmph at isolated places across the State. The combination of intense rainfall, strong winds and lightning could increase the risk of flooding, waterlogging, falling trees and disruptions to transport and power supply in vulnerable areas.

The State disaster management authorities have urged the public to exercise caution, avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense rain and closely monitor official weather advisories. Residents in landslide-prone hilly regions and low-lying flood-prone areas have been advised to remain alert, while fishermen and tourists have also been urged to follow official warnings as the southwest monsoon is expected to remain active over the next several days.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman