Thunderstorms and rain expected today; southern districts likely to receive more rain

Most districts in Kerala received rainfall yesterday, and thunderstorms accompanied by rain are likely to continue today. Rain is expected mainly during the afternoon, evening and night. Southern districts are likely to receive more rainfall compared to northern Kerala.

The low-pressure area that made landfall in the Myanmar region a few days ago is currently located near West Bengal. The system has weakened further today. Rainfall activity is expected to be less intense today compared to yesterday. However, the southern districts are still likely to receive rain, according to the latest assessment.

The rainfall is expected to have the characteristics of the Northeast Monsoon (Thulavarsham). However, the rain currently occurring in Kerala should not be considered the onset of the Northeast Monsoon. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) must officially confirm the arrival of the Northeast Monsoon.

Rain is likely to be reported first in the eastern regions before spreading to the midland areas. Recent weather assessments by Metbeat Weather had indicated that Kerala could experience thunderstorms and rain following a change in wind patterns after October 1.

Risk of flash floods

There is a possibility of flash floods in the eastern regions. People are advised to avoid entering streams, small watercourses and rivers originating from the eastern hilly areas.

Even if there is little or no water in a river, climbing onto rocks or entering the riverbed for photographs can become dangerous during a sudden flash flood. Heavy rainfall can occur in the upper reaches of the hills even when there is no rain in the foothill areas, and this may not always be visible from below.

Lightning alert

As thunderstorms are possible, it is dangerous to remain in elevated or open areas when signs of lightning begin to appear. Travelling to the eastern hilly regions for tourism during the afternoon is also not considered safe under these conditions.

Real-time information on lightning, satellite images of rain clouds, wind direction and areas with a possibility of rainfall can be monitored through the Live Weather Map link available on the Metbeat News website.

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https://metbeatnews.com/page/lightning-strike-map?lat=10.5160