Kerala to receive rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms; yellow alert issued for seven districts today

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy rainfall across Kerala over the next five days. In view of the forecast, a yellow alert has been issued for several districts. Today, the alert is in place for Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasargod.

Yellow alert

30/07/2026: Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasargod

31/07/2026: Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasargod

01/08/2026: Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Kannur and Kasargod

Isolated heavy rainfall is expected in these districts. According to the IMD, heavy rainfall refers to rainfall between 64.5 mm and 115.5 mm within 24 hours. The department has also forecast thunderstorms accompanied by rainfall at isolated places across Kerala today.

Precautionary measures

Thunderstorms are dangerous. They cause great damage to human and animal life, electrical and communication networks and household appliances connected to electrical conductors. Therefore, the public should take the following precautions from the moment they start seeing the dark clouds. Lightning is not always visible, so do not neglect to take these precautions.

• Immediately move into a safe building at the first sign of lightning. Remaining in open areas increases the risk of being struck by lightning.
• Keep windows and doors closed during periods of strong winds and lightning. Avoid standing near doors and windows. Stay inside the building and try to avoid touching walls or floors as much as possible.
• Unplug household appliances. Avoid being near electrical appliances during a thunderstorm.
• Avoid using the telephone during a thunderstorm. It is safe to use a mobile phone.
• If the weather is cloudy, avoid playing outdoors and on terraces, including with children.
• Do not stand under trees during a thunderstorm. Do not park vehicles under trees.
• Stay inside your vehicle during a thunderstorm. Do not put your hands and feet outside. You will be safe inside the vehicle. Avoid travelling in vehicles such as bicycles, bikes, and tractors during a thunderstorm and seek shelter in a safe building until the thunderstorm ends.
• Do not go to the terrace or yard to get clothes when you see a rainstorm.
• Tie down objects that may fall in the wind.
• Avoid bathing during a thunderstorm. Avoid collecting water from taps. Electricity caused by lightning can travel through pipes.