Kerala Braces for Heavy Rain: Orange Alert Issued in Two Districts for August 17

Quick Summary

• Vigorous monsoon rains were observed across several parts of the State due to a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal.
• Vellanikkara in Thrissur recorded the highest rainfall at 15 cm in 24 hours (ending 8:30 a.m., Saturday), followed by Lower Sholayar and Peechi in thrissur with 13 cm each.
• The IMD weather bulletin reported that the current low-pressure system is moving west-northwestwards and weakening gradually, likely reaching gujarat as remnant cyclonic circulation around August 18.
• Additionally, a fresh low-pressure system is expected to develop over northwest and adjoining west-central Bay of Bengal on August 18.
• Strong westerly and north-westerly winds may continue in Kerala and Lakshadweep, causing widespread heavy rainfall until August 19.
• Alerts issued:

– Orange Alert: Kannur, Kasaragod (Very heavy rain likely).
– Yellow Alert: Seven districts except for southernmost districts from Kottayam to Thiruvananthapuram.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The intensification of monsoon precipitation highlights the impact of active cyclonic systems over Indian coasts during this season. While water resource replenishment is critical for agriculture-dependent states like Kerala, sustained heavy rainfall poses risks such as flooding, landslides, and disruption to public life.The IMD’s advance warnings – including orange alerts for Kannur and Kasaragod – serve as vital tools for informed disaster preparedness at local levels. However,coordination between forecasting agencies,local governments,and communities will be essential during such unpredictable climate phenomena.

Emerging patterns suggest that increased frequency or intensity of such events may demand long-term infrastructure planning that aligns with climate resilience strategies to mitigate impacts on both rural livelihoods and urban setups.

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