Rains to intensify today and tomorrow; nine districts on yellow alert, warning issued

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has informed that there is a possibility of widespread rain in Kerala today (Tuesday) and tomorrow (Wednesday). Yellow alert has been sounded in Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Malappuram, Kozhikode and Wayanad. Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki and Ernakulam are on yellow alert tomorrow.

The forecast is for isolated heavy rainfall. The IMD defines heavy rainfall as a situation where rainfall of 64.5 mm to 115.5 mm is received in 24 hours.

Public Safety Advisory

• People living in areas prone to landslides, mudslides, and flash floods should move to safer locations as directed by the authorities.
• Those living along riverbanks and downstream areas of dams should also relocate to safer places in anticipation of possible danger, following instructions from the authorities.
• People residing in disaster-prone areas should make sure that relief camps have been opened in their locality and move to the camps during daylight hours. They may contact local self-government institutions or revenue authorities for assistance.
• As strong winds are likely, people living in poorly secured houses or houses with weak roofs should exercise extra caution. Those who anticipate danger should contact the authorities and move to safer locations as a precautionary measure.
• Be alert to the risk of trees being uprooted and falling, as well as electric poles collapsing due to strong winds. The precautionary measures to be taken during strong winds, issued by the State Disaster Management Authority, are available at: Kerala SDMA – Wind Warning Precautions
• During heavy rainfall, do not cross rivers under any circumstances, and do not enter rivers or other water bodies for bathing, fishing, or any other purpose.
• Do not climb onto bridges over water bodies to watch the water flow, take selfies or photographs, or gather in groups.
• Avoid all non-essential travel when rainfall intensifies. Tourist trips to waterfalls, water bodies, and hilly areas should be completely avoided until the rain warning is withdrawn.