Thiruvananthapuram: As heavy rain continued to lash Kerala, the India Meteorological Department has sounded an orange alert for Ernakulam, Thrissur, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod districts on Thursday. Heavy rainfall ranging from 115.6-204.4 mm is expected in these districts within 24 hours. Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Palakkad and Malappuram districts are placed under a yellow alert that indicates rainfall ranging 64.5 mm to 115.5 mm within 24 hours. The Met department revised its forecast after rain intensified in northern districts of the state. Earlier, only yellow alert was sounded in six districts.

As per the IMD forecast at 1 pm on Thursday, orange alert will prevail in Idukki district also till 4 pm. According to the Met Department, heavy rain will continue in Kerala till Friday. 

“Heavy rainfall (7cm to 11cm in 24 hours) to very heavy rainfall (12cm to 20cm in 24 hours) is very likely to occur at one or two places in Kerala on August 27 and heavy rainfall (7cm to 11cm in 24 hours) is very likely to occur at one or two places in Kerala on August 28 and 29 and in Lakshadweep on August 27,” IMD alert said.

Kerala has been witnessing heavy rain since Wednesday. Fisherfolk are restricted from venturing into the sea off Kerala and Karnataka coasts on Thursday.

Impacts of heavy rainfall

• Waterlogging on major roads and poor visibility on vehicles may lead to traffic congestion.
• Waterlogging/flooding in many parts of the low-lying areas and river banks.
• Uprooting of trees may cause damage related to the power sector.
• Partial damage to houses and huts.
• Chances of landslide and mudslide
• Rain could cause an adverse impact on humans and livestock, as well as damage to loose & unsecured structures along the coastline.

Strong wind warning
The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority has appealed to the public to exercise caution as there are chances for strong winds with speeds reaching up to 40-50 kmph.

The safety guidelines are as follows: 

• Avoid Trees & weak structures: Do not stand under trees or park vehicles beneath them during wind and rain. Trim dangerous branches around your home.
• Secure loose items: Tie down or remove objects such as signboards, poles, or sheets that could fall or blow away.
• Stay Indoors: Close doors and windows during strong winds to prevent drafts and ensure your safety. Stay away from them and avoid rooftops.
• Relocate If Needed: If staying in weak or temporary structures (such as tiled or sheet-roof houses), relocate to safer buildings as advised by the authorities.
• Report hazards: Inform local authorities if you notice dangerous trees or damaged electric poles.
• Electric safety: Stay away from fallen power lines. Report to KSEB (1912) or the District Disaster Control Room (1077). Don’t attempt repairs yourself.
• Early morning workers, including delivery workers, should be cautious. Check for waterlogged areas with possible fallen wires before proceeding.
• Farm safety: Ensure electric lines passing through farms are safe before entering fields.
• Construction work: Stop all construction work during strong winds and move to a safe location.