Twin cyclonic systems fuel heavy rain across Kerala; holiday in 10 districts

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Heavy rainfall is expected to continue across Kerala till Saturday under the influence of twin cyclonic circulations and strengthened westerly winds, said the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

According to the IMD, one cyclonic circulation lies over south Karnataka and adjoining areas at an altitude of 5.8 km above mean sea level, while another is located over the Andhra Pradesh coast and adjoining west-central Bay of Bengal at an altitude of 4.5 km.

An Orange Alert has been issued on Wednesday for Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod districts. A Yellow Alert is in place for Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Thrissur, Palakkad and Malappuram.

The weather department has also warned of strong winds reaching speeds of 40-50 kmph at isolated places till Thursday. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the Kerala, Karnataka and Lakshadweep coasts until Thursday.

Rain toll rises to 25

The death toll in rain-related incidents across the state has risen to 25, while four people remain missing. Ten persons are undergoing treatment.

A total of 418 relief camps are currently functioning across Kerala, sheltering 18,434 people. The heavy rains have completely destroyed 52 houses, while another 565 houses have suffered partial damage.

Holiday in 10 districts

Educational institutions in Kasaragod, Kannur, Wayanad, Kozhikode, Thrissur, Ernakulam, Idukki, Kottayam, Alappuzha and Pathanamthitta districts will remain closed on Wednesday due to the adverse weather.

However, professional colleges in Kannur and Kozhikode will function as usual.

Meanwhile, the University of Kerala has postponed all theory, practical and viva voce examinations scheduled for Wednesday. Revised dates will be announced later. Examinations conducted by the university's teaching departments will be held as scheduled.