Thiruvananthapuram: A fresh spell of intense rainfall is expected across Kerala after a new low-pressure area formed over the southwest Bay of Bengal near Sri Lanka. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heavy rain warning, cautioning that several districts may experience significant rainfall activity over the next five days. In the immediate term, Idukki district has been placed under a yellow alert, with projections indicating rainfall between 64.5 mm and 115.5 mm within a 24-hour period.
According to IMD, the developing system in the Bay of Bengal is gaining strength, while a concurrent cyclonic circulation over the Arabian Sea, located off the south Kerala coast, is further enhancing moisture inflow into the state. The interaction of these two weather systems is expected to trigger widespread light to moderate rains, accompanied by thunderstorms, across various regions of Kerala until the end of the week.
Weather alerts have been extended to multiple districts as a precaution. On Monday, Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, and Idukki have been placed under yellow alert. The situation will remain closely monitored as Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, and Idukki will continue under the alert on Tuesday. The forecast also warns that isolated pockets in Pathanamthitta and Kottayam may witness intense, localized downpours, potentially causing waterlogging or minor disruptions.
Meanwhile, coastal areas have been advised to remain vigilant. Strong winds reaching 35 to 45 kmph, occasionally strengthening to 55 kmph, are expected over the south Andhra Pradesh coast and adjoining areas of the west-central and southwest Bay of Bengal. Fishermen and coastal communities have been cautioned to avoid venturing into the sea due to the likelihood of rough conditions and reduced visibility.
Authorities have urged the public to stay updated on weather bulletins, avoid travel through vulnerable routes during heavy rainfall, and take necessary precautions in landslide-prone and hilly regions. Emergency response teams have been placed on standby as Kerala prepares for another bout of monsoon-related activity influenced by the evolving Bay of Bengal system.