'Downdraft' scare in Kerala, Peerumedu records highest rainfall on Wednesday

KOCHI: The 'downdraft' phenomenon led to the unusual wind that shook Central-South Kerala on Wednesday morning. Meteorologists say strong winds are likely for two more days due to huge cumulus clouds (cumulonimbus). Cumulonimbus clouds are the result of cyclonic circulation in the Arabian Sea.

Due to the north-westerly track of the cyclone, there is a warning of heavy winds and rain in central and northern districts in Kerala. Experts say that the cyclone will lose its intensity in the coming days.

Strong winds hit Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam and Thrissur districts on Wednesday.

Wind speed (km/h)

• Kumarakom – 57.5

• Karumadi - 54

• Vellayani - 48

• Chettakkal - 46

• Laha - 46

• Ponmudi - 40

• Cherthala - 40

• Kottayam - 39

Five places in Kerala received more than 100mm rainfall on Wednesday. Idukki Peerumedu received the most rainfall from Tuesday to Wednesday morning -- 173.3 mm.

Angamoozhy - 154, Thodupuzha -137, Idamalayar Dam -131 and Nilakkal -114.2 are the other places with rainfall.

According to IMD, strong winds are likely in Central-North Kerala in the coming days.