 |
|
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heavy rainfall warning for the state of Kerala, India, extending until December 17th. This warning comes as a result of a well-marked low-pressure area over the southwest Bay of Bengal, which is projected to move west-northwest towards the Sri Lanka-Tamil Nadu coasts within the next 24 hours. The IMD's alert system categorizes the severity of the expected rainfall, with orange alerts indicating a higher level of risk than yellow alerts. For Thursday, December 14th, Ernakulam, Idukki, and Thrissur districts are under an orange alert, signifying a significant threat of heavy rainfall and potential disruptions. Several other districts, including Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Wayanad, are under a yellow alert, indicating a moderate risk of heavy rainfall. This differentiated alert system allows for targeted preparedness and resource allocation across the affected regions.
The impending weather system is not only characterized by heavy rainfall but also by the potential for severe thunderstorms and lightning. The IMD forecasts thunderstorms with lightning accompanied by strong winds, reaching speeds of 30-40 kmph, with gusts potentially up to 50 kmph, in various parts of Kerala on Thursday. The impact of this weather is particularly concerning for the ongoing Sabarimala pilgrimage. The pilgrimage sites of Sannidhanam, Pamba, and Nilackal are under a yellow alert for heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning on Thursday and Friday. This necessitates heightened safety measures and potential adjustments to pilgrimage activities to mitigate risks associated with the severe weather. The IMD's warning underscores the importance of preparedness and caution for all individuals in Kerala, particularly those involved in the pilgrimage.
The meteorological predictions extend beyond Thursday. A yellow alert remains in effect for Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, and Thrissur districts on Friday. Furthermore, squally weather is anticipated along and off the Kerala coast, with wind speeds predicted to reach 35-45 kmph, potentially gusting to 55 kmph. This poses a significant threat to fishermen and maritime activities. As a precautionary measure, the IMD strongly advises fishermen to refrain from venturing into the sea until Saturday. The IMD's detailed forecasts and advisories highlight the agency's commitment to timely and accurate information dissemination, enabling effective response mechanisms and minimizing potential risks to life and property. The heavy rainfall has already begun to impact some areas. According to 24-hour rainfall recorded on Wednesday morning, Piravom received 6 cm of rainfall, while Thycattussery experienced 3 cm, indicating the onset of the predicted heavy rainfall period.
The current weather situation underscores the vulnerability of Kerala to extreme weather events and the critical role of accurate forecasting and effective communication in disaster preparedness. The layered alert system employed by the IMD is essential in ensuring that appropriate measures are taken in different regions based on the level of risk. The detailed information provided, including specific wind speeds and rainfall measurements, facilitates informed decision-making by government agencies, local authorities, and individuals. The advisory to fishermen exemplifies the broad reach of the IMD's warnings, impacting various sectors and livelihood activities within the state. The ongoing monitoring of the low-pressure area and its movement will be vital in providing further updates and ensuring continued preparedness throughout the duration of the weather event. The situation demands vigilant monitoring and proactive measures from both authorities and individuals to minimize any potential adverse impacts.
Source: Kerala on High Alert: Heavy Rainfall and Thunderstorms Forecasted