Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala is set to experience heavy rainfall this afternoon as an atmospheric cyclone formed near Sri Lanka in the Andaman Sea is expected to weaken into a low-pressure area by tomorrow morning. This system may bring rain to Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and parts of Sri Lanka. Currently, an upper air circulation over the sea, connected to the southwest Bay of Bengal, is located at an altitude of about 5.8 kilometers. Meanwhile, a low-pressure system that formed earlier in the Arabian Sea has strengthened into a well-marked low-pressure area, while another system over the Bay of Bengal moves closer to the coast. A trough has also formed between these systems, contributing to heavy rain over Kerala today.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a flash flood warning for nine districts: Kasaragod, Kozhikode, Malappuram, Wayanad, Palakkad, Thrissur, Idukki, and parts of Pathanamthitta. Yesterday, six districts had already received similar warnings. According to Metbeat Weather, heavy rainfall is likely in southern Tamil Nadu and southern Kerala today, with areas in eastern Idukki, Ernakulam, Kottayam, Pathanamthitta, and Thrissur expected to experience intense showers.
Kerala recorded heavy rainfall yesterday, with more than 30 mm of rain in just half an hour in several locations. Kalamassery in Ernakulam received 38 mm, Vaikom in Kottayam 33 mm, and Thiruvananthapuram city 34 mm of rainfall in 30 minutes. The IMD forecasts light to moderate rainfall in the state over the next five days, with occasional heavy showers from October 20 to 24. Lightning and thunder are also likely during this period, and isolated very heavy rainfall is expected on October 20, 22, 23, and 24.
Residents have been advised to take precautions as flooding and waterlogging may affect major roads, causing traffic disruptions. Low-lying areas and riverbanks may experience water accumulation, while falling trees could lead to power outages and accidents. Houses and temporary shelters may face partial damage, and landslides and soil erosion are possible in vulnerable areas. Heavy rain may also pose risks to humans, animals, and unsafe coastal structures. Authorities have urged people to remain alert and follow local safety instructions during the period of heavy rainfall.