Thiruvananthapuram [Kerala], India, August 19 (ANI): The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Swell Surge and High Wave Warning for the coasts of Kerala, Lakshadweep, South Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.
Coastal areas are expected to experience rough sea conditions, with swell waves rising between 1.1 and 2.2 meters, posing risks of nearshore surging and coastal erosion. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea, while operations of small fishing vessels, boat movements and beach activities have been prohibited.
Squally winds with speeds of up to 65 kmph have also been forecast over parts of the Arabian Sea, the Gulf of Mannar and the Bay of Bengal, prompting authorities to urge coastal communities to remain on high alert.
A red alert has been issued for the Kerala coast.
According to the latest district rainfall forecast issued Wednesday, the IMD has predicted isolated heavy rainfall in Kottayam, Ernakulam and Idukki districts.
The remaining districts, including Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode and Wayanad, are very likely to experience light to moderate showers, according to the forecast.
Rainfall activity is expected to continue across Kerala over the next four days. From August 20 to August 23, light to moderate rainfall has been forecast with a high probability across all districts.
According to the forecast, intense spells of rainfall may lead to poor visibility and traffic congestion. Temporary disruptions to traffic could occur due to waterlogging, uprooted trees or broken branches, leading to increased travel times.
Uprooted trees may also damage power infrastructure, while strong winds and falling trees could cause partial damage to thatched or temporary houses and huts. Heavy rainfall may damage standing crops and vegetables at the maturity stage.
The IMD also warned of possible landslides, mudslides or landslips in vulnerable and hilly areas, while lightning may injure people and livestock in open spaces.
The department advised people to follow official traffic advisories, avoid staying in weak or vulnerable structures and take measures to protect crops, including propping up vegetable pandals.
It also advised people to take safe shelter indoors during thunderstorms and lightning activity, avoid open areas and tall trees, and monitor the latest weather updates and official warnings. (ANI)
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