Heavy Rains Lash Kerala After Brief Lull; IMD Issues Alerts As Low-Pressure Area Develops In Bay Of Bengal

According to IMD, a low-pressure area is likely to form due to the cyclonic circulation over the southwest Bay of Bengal, extending up to 3.6 km above sea level during next 48 hours.

After a brief pause, Kerala saw intense rainfall on Friday with bursts across several regions. Southern and central districts experienced heavy rain and thunderstorms in the afternoon. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted heavy rainfall in Kerala over the next five days, issuing orange and yellow alerts in various districts.

On Friday, Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and Pathanamthitta were placed on an orange alert, while Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, and Ernakulam were on a yellow alert, indicating the likelihood of isolated heavy rain. The IMD defines heavy rainfall as between 64.5 mm and 115.5 mm within 24 hours, with a yellow alert warning indicating rainfall of 7–11 cm in some areas.

The IMD also advised against fishing along the Kerala-Lakshadweep coast, citing potential strong winds and adverse weather. In response, the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) urged the public to remain indoors and avoid sheltering under trees or hoardings due to possible strong winds.

The Kerala Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) recommended safety measures during heavy rainfall, including adhering to traffic advisories, avoiding vulnerable structures, steering clear of waterlogged or riverfront areas and seeking shelter during thunderstorms or lightning events.

South India Weather Update

According to IMD, a low-pressure area is likely to form due to the cyclonic circulation over the southwest Bay of Bengal, extending up to 3.6 km above sea level during next 48 hours. The IMD predicts this low-pressure system will move westward over the next two days, affecting Tamil Nadu and possibly Sri Lanka.

IMD said, "Squally weather with wind speed 35-45 kmph gusting to 55 kmph over North Tamilnadu Coast, over South Tamilnadu coast, Gulf of Mannar and adjoining Comorin area,many parts of Southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining areas of Westcentral Bay of Bengal."

In Tamil Nadu, the IMD forecasts light to moderate rain with thunderstorms and lightning in some areas, while isolated heavy rain is expected in Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur, Thanjavur, Pudukkottai, and the Karaikal region.

For Andhra Pradesh, the IMD has predicted light to moderate rain at isolated locations in North Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam and Rayalaseema.