A cyclonic circulation has formed over the north Bay of Bengal near the West Bengal-Bangladesh coasts and is likely to develop into a low-pressure area within the next 24 hours, raising the possibility of increased rainfall activity in Kerala.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast light to moderate rain across the state from Saturday to August 26, which is Thiruvonam. Isolated but heavy rainfall is likely on August 23, 24 and 25 as well, the IMD said, citing the low-pressure area that continues to persist over north-eastern Madhya Pradesh and adjoining areas.

The IMD has issued yellow alerts for several districts in Kerala. On Sunday, the alert is in force in Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod. On Monday, the yellow alert applies to Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam and Thrissur, while Kottayam, Idukki and Ernakulam will remain under yellow alert on August 25. Heavy rainfall refers to rainfall between 64.5 mm and 115.5 mm in 24 hours.

The weather department has also warned of thunderstorms accompanied by rain and strong winds of 30 to 40 kmph at isolated places in Kerala from August 23 to 25.

The IMD said fishing can continue along the Kerala, Karnataka and Lakshadweep coasts on Saturday, but advised fishermen not to venture into the sea from August 23 to 25 due to the likelihood of strong winds and rough weather. Wind speeds of 35 to 45 kmph, occasionally reaching 55 kmph, are expected along these coasts during the period.