Heavy rains likely in state today; yellow alert declared in various districts

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Heavy rains are likely in the state on Saturday as well. Yellow alert has been declared in nine districts namely Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Kottayam, Idukki, Thrissur and Malappuram.

The people living in coastal and hilly areas should remain vigilant, warned the meteorological department. Thundershowers and winds up to a speed of 40 – 50 kilometres per hour are likely. Fishing has been banned in the coasts of Kerala and Lakshadweep. The monsoons in the state will begin by the end of May, said the officials.