Rains to intensify; Five districts on special alert, warning issued

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted a possibility of rain in Kerala for the next five days. A yellow alert has been issued in five districts. Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod districts are on yellow alert. The possibility of isolated heavy rain has been predicted. Heavy rain is defined as a situation where rainfall of 64.5 mm to 115.5 mm is received in 24 hours. Presently, no red or orange alerts have been sounded in any district.

There are also chances for strong winds. The coastal low-pressure area at sea level from the south Gujarat coast to the central Kerala coast increases the possibility of rain. Fishing has been banned on the Kerala-Karnataka-Lakshadweep coasts. Following heavy rain, the collectors have declared a holiday for educational institutions in three districts.
Educational institutions in Kozhikode, Wayanad and Malappuram will remain closed. The holiday applies to all educational institutions including schools, madrasas, tuition centers and professional colleges. University exams and PSC exams will continue as scheduled. This holiday also applies to Anganwadis in the district.

Extremely heavy rains will create accidents. Heavy rains are expected in a short period of time. It may cause flash floods and mountain floods. There is a possibility of waterlogging in urban areas and generally low-lying areas. The situation in which rain continues may cause mudslides and landslides. The public and government agencies should be extremely vigilant.