NEW DELHI: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) warned of heavy to extremely heavy precipitation over Kerala and Lakshadweep in a letter to the Chief Secretary of Kerala and the Administrator of UT Lakshadweep on Saturday.
"Beginning today, widespread rainfall is forecast throughout Kerala and Lakshadweep due to a strong westerly wind flow from the Arabian Sea to South Peninsular India in lower tropospheric levels," stated K. Santhosh, Head of the Meteorological Centre in Thiruvananthapuram.
Heavy rainfall is defined as 7-11 cm in 24 hours by IMD; Very Heavy rainfall is defined as 12-20 cm in 24 hours by IMD; and Extremely Heavy rainfall is defined as more than 20 cm in 24 hours by IMD.
On Sunday and Monday, heavy to very heavy rainfall is very likely in isolated parts of Kerala, and Heavy rainfall is very possible in isolated parts of Kerala on May 17 and 18. On May 15 and 16, isolated regions in Kerala are highly likely to experience thunderstorms with lightning and strong winds reaching 40-50 kmph. Thunderstorms with lightning are expected in isolated areas of Kerala on May 17 and 18, as well as across Lakshadweep until May 18.
Squally weather warnings have been issued for the Southeast Arabian Sea off the coast of Kerala and the Lakshadweep Islands for the days of May 15 and 16. "During the period, fishermen are advised not to enter into the above-mentioned marine areas," an IMD expert said.
Heavy rain expected in Tamil Nadu through May 17: IMD
Kerala's monsoon season is expected to start on May 27: IMD