Kerala’s Onam celebrations face the threat of rain, with a strengthening low-pressure area over the northwest Bay of Bengal likely to bring heavy showers to several parts of the state during the festival period.
With First Onam falling on August 25 and Thiruvonam, the main day of the celebrations, on August 26, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy rainfall in parts of Kerala over the coming days.
A yellow alert has been issued for eight districts on Monday — Kasaragod, Kannur, Thrissur, Idukki, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam and Ernakulam. The alert will continue in three districts on Tuesday, while weather conditions are expected to remain unsettled in several parts of the state.
The weather department, however, has not issued any rain warning for Thiruvonam so far.
The forecast comes as Kerala enters the peak of the Onam festivities, with markets, shopping centres and streets witnessing increased activity. Families are preparing for the traditional Onam feast, while public events, cultural programmes and gatherings are scheduled across the state.
Authorities are closely monitoring the evolving weather system as the state prepares for the most significant phase of the festival.
Meanwhile, a fishing ban has been imposed along the Kerala and Lakshadweep coasts due to the possibility of heavy rain and strong winds.
The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) has also warned of possible coastal inundation under the Kallakkadal phenomenon. Waves ranging from 0.9 metres to 1.3 metres are expected along the Kerala coast until 11.30 p.m. on Monday.
Coastal residents and tourists have been advised to exercise caution and avoid beach visits and sea-based recreational activities until the warning is withdrawn. Fishing vessels have also been advised to remain safely anchored in harbours.
The adverse weather forecast has raised concerns over outdoor events planned during the Onam celebrations, although the festival preparations continue across the state.
(With IANS inputs)
