Kochi: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has extended the yellow alert for heavy rainfall in Kerala until Thursday, with a warning of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds at isolated places. Meanwhile, the southwest monsoon is expected to reach the state by Tuesday, May 26.
Yellow and Orange Alerts Issued
On Sunday, all districts except Palakkad and Wayanad were placed under a yellow alert. Ernakulam district was on orange alert after receiving widespread rainfall. For Monday, the IMD has issued a yellow alert for all districts except Kasaragod, Kannur, Palakkad, Kollam, and Thiruvananthapuram.
Wind and Sea Conditions
Squally weather with wind speeds of 40-50 kmph, gusting up to 60 kmph, is likely to prevail along and off the Kerala coast until Thursday. Fishermen and coastal residents are advised to exercise caution.
Rainfall Statistics
The state recorded 26 cm of rainfall between March 1 and May 24, against the normal of 28 cm for the period, reflecting an 8% deficiency. Notably, Ernakulam, Idukki, Malappuram, and Palakkad recorded deficient rainfall ranging from 22% to 38% during this period. On Sunday, the highest rainfall was recorded at Mattancherry with 8 cm of rain until 5 pm, followed by 6 cm at Ayyankunnu in Kannur district.
