Thiruvananthapuram: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast widespread rain and thundershowers across Kerala till October 28, with the possibility of isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall in several districts.

An orange alert has been issued for Kozhikode, Kannur, and Kasaragod on Monday, predicting very heavy rainfall ranging between 115.6 mm and 204.4 mm. A yellow alert is in place for Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, and Wayanad, where rainfall between 64.5 mm and 115.5 mm is expected.

On Wednesday, Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, and Idukki will also remain under a yellow alert.

The IMD warned of squally weather with wind speeds of 40–50 kmph, gusting up to 60 kmph, likely to prevail along and off the Kerala–Karnataka–Lakshadweep coasts till October 28. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into these sea areas during this period.

Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds (30–40 kmph) are also likely at isolated places in Kerala and Lakshadweep till October 26, the IMD added.

The IMD has warned that heavy to very heavy rainfall may lead to poor visibility and traffic congestion, along with temporary disruptions due to waterlogging, uprooting of trees, and fallen branches. Power supply may be affected, and vulnerable houses or structures could suffer partial damage. There is also a heightened risk of flash floods, landslides, and mudslides in hilly and low-lying areas. Standing crops and vegetables nearing harvest may be damaged, while heavy rain and lightning could cause soil erosion, seed displacement, and injuries to people or livestock in open spaces.

Authorities have advised residents to follow weather and traffic alerts, avoid staying in vulnerable or flood-prone areas, and move to safer locations if necessary. People are also urged to take shelter during thunderstorms, refrain from working in open fields, and ensure proper drainage in agricultural lands. Farmers have been advised to secure vegetable pandals, provide mulch around crops to prevent soil damage, and postpone sowing or protect seeded areas with straw or farm residues to prevent water stagnation and soil erosion.