In response to the imminent threat of heavy rainfall, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a severe warning to fishermen, instructing them to refrain from venturing into the coasts of Kerala and Lakshadweep. The caution is prompted by a cyclonic circulation formed in the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal, indicating the likelihood of continuous heavy rainfall over Kerala for the next five days.
Collaborating with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the IMD urges residents in coastal areas to remain vigilant due to the anticipated adverse weather conditions. An orange alert, in effect from October 11th to October 13th, warns of very heavy rainfall, reaching up to 20 cm, in various districts of the state.
As the northeast monsoon approaches, heavy rains have already begun in Kerala, prompting an orange alert for Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, and Idukki districts. Up to 20 cm of intense rainfall is expected within a 24-hour period, with a yellow warning issued for all other districts.
A cyclonic circulation along the Kerala-Lakshadweep coast is expected to intensify into a low-pressure system by Tuesday, potentially moving westward with increased strength. The impact of the system on rainfall intensity will depend on its proximity to the Kerala coast. If it moves away, a reduction in rainfall is anticipated; however, if it remains close, heavy rainfall is expected to persist.
On October 17, a yellow alert has been declared for all districts, except Kannur and Kozhikode. Fishing activities have been prohibited along the Kerala coast until Tuesday and along the Lakshadweep coast until October 18.
Despite a 19 percent surplus in rainfall between October 1 and 15, the official declaration of the northeast monsoon’s arrival is still pending. Residents are urged to stay informed about updates from authorities and take necessary precautions in the face of the evolving weather situation.
