Kochi : The Indian Meteorological Department(IMD) has forecast heavy rains to pound the state all through the day on Thursday. Idukki is on red alert while orange alerts have been issued for five other districts - Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod.
The downpours are expected to be specially severe in central and northern regions in the state. Yellow alert has been declared in Palakkad.IMD predicts widespread rains to last in Kerals up to 20 August.
In the likelihood of towering waves and rough weather at sea, coastal settlements have been warned of possible sea attack close to shorelines.
The State Disaster Relief Authority and government have urged people to remain on vigil, especially the residents along riversides and those living in low-lying plains. People residing in places prone to landslides have been specially alerted to the situation, as rains intensify.
State DGP Loknath Behera informed that police personnel have been positioned in ready mode in case of any eventuality from severe rains. Several low lying areas are already witnessing flooding as severe rains continue to lash much of the state.
