THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Another cyclone is forming in the Bay of Bengal after cyclone Tej formed in the Arabian Sea. The Central Meteorological Department reports that the extreme low pressure over the Bay of Bengal will intensify within the next 12 hours. It is expected to become a cyclonic storm by Tuesday. The Meteorological Department states that Cyclone Hamon will move towards the coasts of West Bengal and Bangladesh.

While it seems likely that the cyclone would not directly impact the Kerala coast, isolated heavy rain is possible in the state. A yellow alert has been issued for several districts due to the rain warning. These districts include Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Idukki, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad and Kozhikode. There's also a warning of potential heavy rain in hilly areas and a possibility of strong thunderstorms.

Isolated thundershowers and gusty winds of 30 to 40 km/hr may occur at some places until October 23. The Central Meteorological Department further states that there's a possibility of light rain with thunder and lightning in isolated locations across all Kerala districts over the next 3 hours, with strong winds reaching speeds of up to 40 km per hour.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Research Center, high waves and storm surges are expected along the Kerala coast (Vizhinjam to Kasaragod) until 11:30 pm today and between 1.5 to 3.0 meters along the south Tamil Nadu coast (Kulachal to Kilakarai) until 11:30 pm today.

Safety measures to be taken

As rough seas are likely to intensify, follow the instructions of authorities to stay away from dangerous areas.

Secure fishing vessels (boats, etc.) safely in the harbour. Maintain a safe distance between boats to prevent collisions and ensure the safety of fishing equipment.

Avoid trips to the beach and any sea-related activities entirely.

Fishermen in the Kerala-Karnataka coast and Lakshadweep area are advised that there is no disruption to fishing as per the Central Meteorological Department.