IMD issues orange alert for heavy rain in Kerala districts
Heads up, Kerala. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for heavy rain in Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, and Thrissur.
Expect strong showers (115.6 to 204.4mm), thunderstorms, and gusty winds up to 40 kph at isolated places over the next 24 hours, so it is a good idea to stay indoors if you can.
Kerala CM orders hourly weather checks
Lighter rain is likely at isolated places in Kollam, Palakkad, and Kannur.
The state government is not taking any chances: Chief Minister V D Satheesan has ordered hourly weather checks and the collectors have been directed to assess the situation and take necessary measures, including evacuation.
This comes as Kerala is still recovering from deadly landslides on Sunday evening and a flash flood in the Kottapuzha River in Nilambur in Malappuram district, in which six people were swept away, a reminder to stay alert and follow safety advice during heavy weather.