Thiruvananthapuram: The Central Meteorological Department has sounded a high alert across Kerala as a severe low-pressure system continues to influence the state’s weather. A red alert has been issued for Kannur and Kasaragod districts on Sunday, indicating the likelihood of extremely heavy rainfall exceeding 204.4 mm within 24 hours. At the same time, an orange alert has been declared in seven districts Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, and Kannur while nine districts, including Kottayam, Alappuzha, Pathanamthitta, Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Wayanad, are under a yellow alert, reflecting moderate to heavy rainfall risk.
The intensification of rainfall is linked to a severe low-pressure area located over northwestern Rajasthan, which is influencing widespread rain activity in southern India. Additionally, meteorologists have warned of the formation of a new low-pressure zone in the northern Bay of Bengal by July 24, which could prolong and worsen the monsoon conditions across the state.
Earlier, red alerts that were in place for Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod districts today have been withdrawn. However, due to the forecast of continued heavy rainfall, most of these districts remain under orange or yellow alert levels.
The department has outlined that on Sunday, the red alert applies to Kannur and Kasaragod, while orange alerts cover Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, and Kannur. Yellow alerts are in force in Kottayam, Alappuzha, and Pathanamthitta districts.
Looking ahead to Monday, extremely heavy rain is likely to persist in Kannur and Kasaragod, while yellow alerts will extend to Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Wayanad. From Tuesday to Wednesday, the yellow alert will remain active in Kannur, Kasaragod, Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Wayanad, indicating the possibility of ongoing moderate rainfall.
In addition to heavy downpours, the Central Meteorological Department has warned of strong winds ranging between 40 to 50 kmph in isolated parts of Kerala from Saturday (July 19) through Tuesday (July 22). These wind conditions, combined with rain, may increase the risk of falling trees, infrastructure damage, and power outages.
Authorities have urged residents, especially in hilly and flood-prone regions, to remain vigilant. Travellers are advised to avoid risky routes, particularly in areas known for landslides or waterlogging. Fishermen have also been warned against venturing into the sea during this period.
As monsoon conditions intensify under the influence of evolving weather systems, the public is advised to follow official updates and safety instructions to minimize risks. Relief teams have been asked to remain on standby as Kerala enters yet another challenging phase of the monsoon season.