THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala is experiencing heavy rainfall, with the Central Meteorological Department predicting continued downpours in several districts. An orange alert has been issued today for Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Ernakulam and Idukki districts. Meanwhile, a yellow alert is in effect in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha, Thrissur, Palakkad and Kozhikode. The forecast indicates that Kottayam, Idukki and Kozhikode may experience heavy rain tomorrow as well.

A cyclonic circulation is currently over North Karnataka and Telangana and a low-pressure trough extends from this circulation to the Comorin region at an altitude of 1.5 km over Kerala and Tamil Nadu. As a result, moderate to heavy rainfall accompanied by widespread thunderstorms and lightning is expected across Kerala over the next five days, according to the Central Meteorological Department.

In the next three hours, isolated areas in eight districts, including Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam and Thrissur, may experience thunderstorms with gusty winds reaching speeds of up to 40 kmph. Light to moderate rain is also possible in other districts across the state.

Cautionary note

The Central Meteorological Department has advised residents in danger zones to exercise caution, especially given the possibility of strong sea waves along various coastlines. Residents should be prepared to evacuate if necessary and fishing activities should be conducted with safety in mind.

Those living in insecure homes, particularly those with weak roofs, should be prepared to evacuate if warnings intensify in the coming days. Trees, posts, and other potentially hazardous objects in private and public spaces should be secured and dangerous conditions should be reported to the authorities.

Residents in disaster-prone areas should have an emergency kit ready. Guidelines for preparing the kit can be found at [Kerala SDMA Emergency Kit Instructions](https://sdma.kerala.gov.in/.../2020/07/Emergency-Kit.pdf).

During heavy rains, crossing rivers, bathing in water bodies, fishing or engaging in any other activity near water is strongly discouraged. Gathering on bridges or taking selfies over water bodies is strictly prohibited.

Those living downstream of dams should be alert to the possibility of water overflow and be ready to evacuate as per the instructions of authorities.