The India Meteorological Department has placed two key Kerala districts on high alert as threatening weather patterns develop over the Bay of Bengal. Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam districts are now under a yellow alert, indicating potentially severe weather conditions in the coming days.
Weather Warnings and Precautions
According to the latest IMD bulletin, squally weather with wind speeds reaching 40-50 kmph is expected along coastal areas. The weather department has specifically warned that gusts could potentially reach 60 kmph in certain regions, creating hazardous conditions for maritime activities.
The meteorological office has issued a fishermen warning for South Kerala, advising against venturing into the sea along the South Tamil Nadu coast, Gulf of Mannar, Comorin area, and sections of the Andaman Sea. These precautions come as the department monitors developing weather systems that could intensify in the coming days.
Developing Weather Systems
The current weather disturbance stems from a low-pressure area that formed on Sunday over the Southwest Bay of Bengal. This system continues to move westward, feeding moisture into the atmosphere that maintains the northeast monsoon's activity across the region.
More concerning is the IMD's prediction that another low-pressure area may develop around November 22 over the Southeast Bay of Bengal. Meteorological experts indicate this system could intensify in subsequent days, potentially exacerbating the already volatile weather situation across Kerala and neighboring regions.
Regional Rainfall Deficits and Impacts
Despite the current alerts, rainfall levels across several regions continue to show significant deficits. Data recorded as of November 16 reveals that Kerala faces a 26% rainfall deficit, while Tamil Nadu shows a 9% shortfall. Puducherry records the most substantial deficit at 24% below normal precipitation levels.
The IMD has outlined several probable impacts due to the expected heavy rainfall, including:
- Poor visibility leading to traffic congestion
- Waterlogging and tree falls disrupting transportation
- Potential damage to power infrastructure from uprooted trees
- Risk to standing crops and vegetables nearing maturity
- Possible landslides, mudslides, and landslips in vulnerable areas
- Lightning threats to people and cattle in open spaces
Authorities recommend that residents follow traffic advisories closely and avoid staying in vulnerable structures during the severe weather period. The IMD also suggests propping vegetable pandals and seeking proper shelter during thunderstorms and lightning events.
