Monsoon intensifies: Yellow alert extends to Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, and six other districts

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for several districts in Kerala as monsoon rains continue to intensify across the state. Authorities have warned of isolated heavy rainfall ranging between 64.5 mm and 115.5 mm within a 24-hour window.

For today, the yellow alert is in place for eight districts: Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, and Thrissur. The wet spell is expected to persist over the coming days. Tomorrow, the alert will remain active for Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, and Ernakulam. By the day after tomorrow, the weather warning will shift focus to the Kottayam, Idukki, and Ernakulam districts.

Potential impact and disruptions

Disaster management and weather officials have outlined several risks associated with the impending downpour:

• Commuter Woes: Heavy waterlogging on major thoroughfares and severely reduced visibility are expected to cause significant traffic congestion.
• Flooding and Landslides: Low-lying regions and riverbanks face a high risk of inundation. Furthermore, hilly areas are on high alert for potential landslides and mudslides.
• Property and Infrastructure Damage: Strong winds accompanying the rain could uproot trees, leading to widespread power outages and localised accidents. Commuters and residents are warned that temporary or vulnerable structures, particularly in coastal belts, as well as thatched houses, may suffer partial damage.

Advisory issued

In light of the inclement weather, authorities have urged local bodies to streamline traffic management to prevent gridlocks. Residents are strongly advised to restrict non-essential travel and remain in safe, secure shelter until weather conditions improve.