Lightning and Heavy Rain Likely; Yellow Alert Issued for 8 Districts

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast thunderstorms accompanied by rain and strong winds reaching speeds of 30–40 kmph at isolated places across Kerala today (July 20). The department has advised the public to remain vigilant as a Yellow Alert has been issued for several districts.

Yellow Alert in 8 Districts

A Yellow Alert has been issued today for Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod districts. The forecast indicates the possibility of heavy rainfall at isolated places. Heavy rain refers to rainfall between 64.5 mm and 115.5 mm within 24 hours.

Lightning Alert

The IMD has warned that lightning poses a serious threat to human and animal life and can also cause significant damage to electrical and communication networks, as well as household appliances connected to power lines.

People are advised to move to safe shelters as soon as dark rain clouds develop and avoid open areas, trees, and water bodies. Since lightning is not always visible, precautionary measures should be followed at all times during thunderstorm conditions.

Relief for Fishermen; No Fishing Ban Along Kerala Coast

The IMD has stated that there are no restrictions on fishing today along the Kerala, Karnataka, and Lakshadweep coasts. However, a special caution has been issued for several offshore regions where strong winds and rough weather are expected.

Strong Winds Over the Sea; Fishing Prohibited in These Areas

On July 20, winds of 45–55 kmph, gusting up to 65 kmph, are likely over the Central-West Arabian Sea, adjoining Central-East Arabian Sea, North Arabian Sea, Southwest Arabian Sea, Somalia coast, Oman coast, Central-West Bay of Bengal, South Sri Lanka coast, adjoining Southwest Bay of Bengal, and the Gulf of Mannar.

On July 21 and 22, similar conditions are expected over the Central-West Arabian Sea, North Arabian Sea, Somalia coast, Oman coast, Gujarat coast, and the Gulf of Mannar.

On July 20 and 21, strong winds of 40–50 kmph, gusting up to 60 kmph, along with rough sea conditions, are likely over the Andhra Pradesh coast and the adjoining Central-West Bay of Bengal.

On July 23 and 24, strong winds are also expected over parts of the Arabian Sea, the Sri Lanka coast, the Oman coast, and the Somalia coast.

Avoid Fishing in Warning Areas

The IMD has advised fishermen not to venture into the sea in the regions covered by these warnings on the specified dates. Fishermen are also urged to check the latest official weather advisories and marine forecast maps before setting out to sea.