Kerala Rain: IMD revises forecast, Orange alert in Kannur, Kasaragod

Thiruvananthapuram: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that Kerala will continue to experience heavy rainfall on Friday. Nine districts- Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod have been placed under yellow alert.

Earlier, this morning, the IMD sounded an orange alert for four districts — Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod — till 10 am. 

According to the Met Department,  a low-pressure area formed over Chhattisgarh is likely to bring isolated rainfall in Kerala till September 1. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea off the Kerala–Lakshadweep coasts on Friday. Fishing has also been banned along the Karnataka coast till September 1.

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.