Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala is on high alert as heavy rainfall continues across the state, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a yellow alert in nine districts today. The advisory covers Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Wayanad, warning residents to remain vigilant amid the ongoing monsoon activity.
The IMD has reported that a cyclone currently positioned over the southeast Arabian Sea is expected to intensify into a depression in the next 24 hours, potentially evolving into an extreme depression shortly thereafter. Authorities have cautioned that the system could bring heavy rain with thunderstorms across Kerala for the next five days, increasing the risk of flooding and localized waterlogging in low-lying areas.
In anticipation of rough seas and strong winds, the IMD has imposed a ban on fishing along the Kerala, Karnataka, and Lakshadweep coasts. The restriction remains in effect until Tuesday, October 21, 2025, to ensure the safety of fishermen and coastal communities. Residents and visitors in coastal and hilly regions have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel and remain updated on weather warnings.
Local administrations in the affected districts are coordinating with disaster management teams to monitor rivers, dams, and low-lying areas prone to flooding. Emergency response teams have been put on standby to assist with potential evacuations and relief measures.
The IMD continues to closely monitor the cyclone’s trajectory and intensity, urging citizens to follow updates from official channels. With the extreme depression expected to strengthen rapidly, authorities emphasize that precautionary measures and early preparedness are key to minimizing risks to life and property.
Kerala, still recovering from recent heavy monsoon rains, faces a challenging week ahead as meteorologists warn of continued downpours, strong winds, and rough seas affecting both inland and coastal areas.