Intense spells of summer rain have lashed many parts of Kerala since Wednesday night, creating a flood-like situation across the state, even as the southwest monsoon is still a week away.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted very heavy to extremely heavy rain for the next two days due to a low-pressure area forming over the southeast Arabian Sea off the Kerala coast, influenced by cyclonic circulation over south Kerala. A red alert has been issued for the districts of Ernakulam and Thrissur, which have been severely affected since Wednesday night, while an orange alert is in place for eight other districts.
A week ago, Kerala was experiencing scorching heat, but the recent heavy rains have significantly lowered temperatures and addressed the severe seasonal rainfall deficiency. As of May 16, the cumulative rainfall for Kerala, Mahe, and Lakshadweep from March 1 to May 15 showed a 44 percent deficit. However, by May 23, IMD data indicated that the heavy rains had brought the overall figures to normal levels for the entire state, with nine districts reporting excess rain—a 20 percent departure from normal figures.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan urged people to remain alert as continued rainfall could cause flash floods, landslides, and flooding in low-lying urban areas. As a precaution, 223 people have been relocated to eight camps across the state. Fishermen have been advised not to venture out to sea along the Kerala coast until further notice.
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