Thiruvananthapuram (Keralam) [India], August 19 (ANI): The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Swell Surge and High Wave Warning for the coasts of Keralam, Lakshadweep, South Tamil Nadu
and Puducherry. Coastal areas are expected to witness rough sea conditions, with swell waves rising between 1.1 and 2.2 metres, posing risks of nearshore surging and coastal erosion. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea, while operations of small fishing vessels, boat movements, and beach activities have been prohibited. Squally winds with speeds reaching up to 65 kmph have also been forecast over parts of the Arabian Sea, the Gulf of Mannar, and the Bay of Bengal, prompting authorities to urge coastal communities to remain on high alert. A red alert has been issued for Keralam coast. According to the latest district rainfall forecast issued on Wednesday, the IMD has predicted isolated heavy rainfall in Kottayam, Ernakulam, and Idukki districts on Wednesday. The remaining districts, including Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Wayanad, are very likely to experience light to moderate showers, according to the forecast. Rainfall activity is expected to continue across Keralam over the next four days. From August 20 to August 23, light to moderate rainfall has been forecast with high probability across all districts. According to predictions, intense spells of rainfall may lead to poor visibility and traffic congestion. Temporary disruption of traffic could occur due to waterlogging, uprooting of trees, or breaking of tree branches, leading to increased travel time. Uprooting of trees may also cause damage to power infrastructure, while partial damage to kutcha houses and huts could occur due to falling trees and strong winds. Heavy rainfall may damage standing crops and vegetables in the maturity stage. The IMD also warned of possible landslides, mudslides, or landslips in vulnerable and hilly areas, while lightning may injure people and cattle in open spaces. The department advised people to follow official traffic advisories, avoid staying in weak or vulnerable structures and take measures to protect crops, including propping up vegetable pandals. It also advised people to take safe indoor shelter during thunderstorms and lightning activity, avoid open areas and tall trees, and keep track of the latest weather updates and official warnings. (ANI)
