Thiruvananthapuram, 30 July (H.S):The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast widespread heavy to very heavy rainfall across Kerala over the next three days, prompting Orange and Yellow alerts for several districts. The weather agency has also warned of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds, urging residents to remain cautious.

On Thursday, Orange Alerts have been issued for Kozhikode, Wayanad and Kannur districts, where isolated places are expected to receive very heavy rainfall. Yellow Alerts, indicating the likelihood of heavy rain, are in place for Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad and Malappuram. No rain alerts have been issued for Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam and Alappuzha on Thursday.

The rainfall is expected to intensify on Friday, with Orange Alerts declared for Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Kannur and Kasaragod districts. All remaining districts have been placed under Yellow Alert, signalling widespread rainfall across the State.

On Saturday, Orange Alerts will be in force for Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam and Idukki, while the rest of Kerala will continue under Yellow Alert as heavy rain is expected to persist.

According to the IMD, an Orange Alert indicates the possibility of very heavy rainfall ranging from 115.6 mm to 204.4 mm within 24 hours at isolated locations. The department has also warned that the rain is likely to be accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning, increasing the risk of localised flooding, waterlogging and disruptions in vulnerable areas.

For Sunday, Yellow Alerts have been issued for Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod districts.

In addition to heavy rainfall, the IMD has forecast strong surface winds with speeds of 40 to 50 kmph at isolated places across Kerala until Sunday. Authorities have advised the public to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary travel to vulnerable areas, and follow official weather updates and safety advisories.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman