THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded a yellow alert in nine districts as heavy rains are lashing the state. Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod are on yellow alert today. Strict directions have also been issued to those living along the Kerala coast. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has informed that there is a possibility of high waves and sea erosion of 2.8 to 3.4 meters in the coasts of Kannur (Valapattanam to New Mahe) district till 8:30 am today, and in Kasaragod (Kunchathur to Kottakunnu) and Alappuzha (Chellanam to Azhikkal Jetty) districts till 8:30 pm tonight. Fishing has also been banned.

Meantime, the flow of water in the Makkimala river in Wayanad is very strong following heavy rain. It is reported that all low-lying areas have been flooded. The river is overflowing with muddy water. The authorities have informed that they are checking whether there has been a landslide. The authorities have also warned the local residents to be vigilant.

Following the heavy rain, the operation of resorts and home stays has been banned in nine panchayats in Mananthavady and Vythiri taluks. A 24-hour control room has been opened in Thavinjal grama panchayat. The possibility of very heavy rain has been predicted in isolated places. The IMD defines extremely heavy rainfall as rainfall ranging from 115.6 mm to 204.4 mm in 24 hours.