Rain Likely in Keralam as Low-Pressure Systems Persist; Coastal Areas on Alert

Thiruvananthapuram: Keralam is likely to receive rain as a low-pressure area persists over Saurashtra and the adjoining northeast Arabian Sea, while another low-pressure system is likely to form over the Bay of Bengal, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said.

A cyclonic circulation is currently prevailing over northern Thailand and is expected to reach the northern Andaman Sea by the evening of September 18. The system is likely to intensify into a low-pressure area by the evening of September 19. It is expected to gradually strengthen and move west-northwestwards over the next three to four days towards the southern Odisha and northern Andhra Pradesh coasts.

A low-pressure trough extends from Marathwada to the Gulf of Mannar, passing over Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.

Keralam is likely to receive light to moderate rain from September 17 to 21. Isolated areas may receive heavy rain from September 17 to 20. Thunderstorms accompanied by rain and strong winds of up to 40–50 kmph are also likely at isolated places in Keralam during the same period.

Swell surge warning

The National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) has warned of the possibility of coastal erosion and sea incursion along the Thiruvananthapuram coast, from Kappil to Pozhiyoor, and the Kollam coast, from Alappad to Edava, due to high waves associated with the swell surge phenomenon.

Waves measuring 0.8 to 1.4 metres are expected along these stretches from 11.30 pm on September 18 to 11.30 pm on September 19.

A similar warning has been issued for the Kanyakumari coast, where waves of 1.2 to 1.7 metres are likely from 8.30 pm on September 18 to 11.30 am on September 19.

Fisherfolk and coastal residents have been advised to remain alert in view of the possibility of sea incursions.

Authorities have advised residents in vulnerable areas to relocate to safer places as directed by officials if sea conditions worsen. The use of small boats and fishing vessels should be avoided during this period.

INCOIS has also warned that bringing fishing vessels ashore can be as dangerous as launching them into the sea when swell surge and high-wave conditions prevail. Fisherfolk have therefore been advised to avoid both launching and bringing vessels ashore while the waves are intensifying.

All beach-related activities, including tourism, should be completely avoided until the INCOIS warning is withdrawn. Fishing vessels such as boats and small craft should be securely moored at harbours, with adequate distance maintained between vessels to prevent collisions. Fishing equipment should also be kept secure.

People have been advised to avoid travelling to beaches and entering the sea for recreational activities. Special caution should be exercised in areas vulnerable to coastal erosion.