Kerala braces for a fresh spell of intense monsoon fury as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issues Red Alerts for five northern districts — Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod — forecasting extremely heavy rainfall through the weekend. Orange Alerts have also been sounded across several central and southern districts including Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, and Pathanamthitta, while Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and Alappuzha remain under Yellow Alert. The downpour is linked to a cyclonic circulation over North Karnataka and Telangana-Rayalaseema, coupled with strong westerly winds sweeping over Kerala. With rain estimates expected to cross 204 mm in Red Alert zones, the IMD warns of possible flash floods, landslides, lightning, and severe waterlogging, especially in low-lying and urban areas. The alerts extend through Tuesday, urging residents and authorities to remain vigilant and prepared for potential weather emergencies.
