Rain, thundershowers likely to occur in next three hours 

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Central Meteorological Department informed that there is a possibility of light to moderate rain with thunder and lightning at isolated places in Ernakulam in the next three hours and strong winds with a speed of up to 40 kmph.

There is a possibility of heat wave in Palakkad and Kollam. A heat wave is declared when the temperature is above 40 degrees Celsius for two consecutive days and 4-5 degree Celsius higher than the average temperature. Palakkad was above 40 degrees for the fourth consecutive day yesterday (40.6). Punalur (39.2), Kottayam (38.2) and Kozhikode (37.6) also recorded more heat yesterday.

Kerala is burning due to the El Nino phenomenon which has been experienced again after eight years. Central Meteorological Department has warned that it will be very hot till Thursday. El Nino refers to an abnormal warming of surface waters in equatorial Pacific Ocean and it is known to suppress monsoon rainfall. El Nino in the Arabian Sea has affected Kerala. The course and direction of heat, wind and rain will be within its circle.