Summer Rains to Intensify Over Next Five Days; Yellow Alert Issued in Three Districts Today

Thiruvananthapuram: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning that summer rains will intensify in the state over the next five days. A yellow alert has been declared today in three districts — Malappuram, Wayanad, and Kannur — due to the likelihood of isolated heavy rainfall.

The forecast also indicates the possibility of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and strong winds at speeds of 30 to 40 km/h in the coming days. Thunderstorms are likely from tomorrow until April 14, according to the IMD.

In Thiruvananthapuram district, from Kappil to Poovar, high tides ranging from 1.0 to 1.1 meters are expected tomorrow between 2:30 PM and 11:30 PM as part of a rough sea phenomenon (“Kallakkadal”), which may lead to coastal flooding, as per the National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS).

From 8:30 PM tonight until 11:30 PM on April 12, high waves ranging from 1.2 to 1.3 meters are expected along the Kanyakumari coast due to the same phenomenon. Fishermen and coastal residents are advised to remain alert. As the sea conditions are expected to worsen, people in vulnerable areas should relocate following official instructions. Small boats and canoes should not be taken out to sea during this time.

It is equally dangerous to anchor fishing vessels close to the shore during high waves. Hence, both setting out to sea and anchoring should be avoided during this period. Until the warning is withdrawn, all activities focused around beaches, including tourism, should be carried out with extreme caution. Fishing vessels (boats, canoes, etc.) must be safely moored in harbors. Maintaining safe distances between vessels can prevent collision risks. The safety of fishing gear should also be ensured. Trips to beaches and recreational activities at sea should be completely avoided. Due to the potential for coastal erosion, extra caution is advised, INCOIS has warned.