Is Kerala Prepared for the Upcoming Monsoon Intensity?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Orange alert issued for Kannur and Kasaragod due to heavy rainfall.
- Precautionary measures in place across vulnerable districts.
- Fishing activities suspended along Kerala's coast until Monday.
- Tragic incidents have occurred due to the severe weather.
- Authorities are monitoring dam water levels closely.
Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 17 (NationPress) The monsoon rains across Kerala are anticipated to grow stronger due to a low-pressure system projected to develop over the Bay of Bengal by Monday, as reported by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
Heavy rainfall is expected to persist until August 20, with numerous districts put on alert.
An orange alert has been issued for Kannur and Kasaragod districts on Sunday, signaling the possibility of extremely heavy rainfall ranging from 115.6 mm to 204.4 mm within the next 24 hours.
Additionally, a yellow alert has been declared for seven districts: Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Malappuram, Palakkad, Kozhikode, and Wayanad, where rainfall between 64.5 mm and 115.5 mm is anticipated in a day.
Since Thursday, heavy downpours coupled with strong winds have been affecting the central and northern regions of Kerala.
This severe weather has already resulted in significant damage, with uprooted trees obstructing roads and damaging properties in various locales.
On Saturday, a tragic incident occurred in Vadakara, Kozhikode, where a woman was electrocuted after touching a downed power line caused by a fallen tree.
The heavy rains have also elevated water levels in several dams and reservoirs to critical levels.
In Pathanamthitta district, authorities opened two shutters of the Kakki reservoir on Saturday afternoon to alleviate pressure. In Palakkad, the Meenkara, Chuliyar, and Walayar dams reached “third stage alert” status, prompting precautionary actions.
Fishermen have been advised to stay on land, as the IMD has warned of strong winds reaching speeds of up to 65 kmph over the Arabian Sea.
Fishing activities along the coasts of Kerala, Karnataka, and Lakshadweep have been suspended until Monday due to perilous sea conditions.
As the monsoon continues unabated, disaster management authorities have urged residents to maintain vigilance. Local administrations have been instructed to establish relief camps and implement preventive measures in at-risk areas.
Officials noted that the situation will be closely monitored, particularly in northern districts, which are expected to experience the most severe impact of the intensified monsoon.