THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Widespread rains are likely to lash the state on Thursday. Yellow alert has been issued in 12 districts namely Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, Kasaragod.

Although a yellow alert has been issued, the meteorological department has said that caution similar to orange alert should be observed in hilly areas, which have received heavy rains for the past few days. Yellow alert has been issued in Thrissur, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod districts on Friday.

Meantime, heavy rains are continuing to lash Kozhikode on Thursday. The shutters of Kakkayam dam have been opened. The water levels are likely to rise in Kuttiyadi River. The authorities have warned the coastal residents to remain vigilant.

Holiday for educational institutions

In the wake of strong winds and heavy rains, the district collector has announced a holiday for educational institutions in Devikulam taluk of Idukki. The holiday is applicable for all educational institutions including professional colleges.