India: Inclement weather alerts in the south due to Cyclone Maha October 31

Event

Cyclone Maha, which intensified over the Arabian sea on Wedneday, October 30, is forecast to bring heavy rain to Kerala, South Konkan, Goa, and the Lakshadweep archipelago through at least Friday, November 1.

On Thursday, October 31, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange weather alert for ten districts across Kerala, including Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, Kasaragode, and Alappuzha, where 104 mm (4 in) of rain have been recorded since Wednesday.

In the Lakshadweep archipelago, a red alert was issued and rainfall over 204 mm (8 in) is expected through Friday.

Cyclone Maha, which was located 11.9°N, 73.1°E (map here) at 16:30 (local time) on Thursday, is forecast to intensify into a tropical cyclone by Friday night as it moves north-northwest along the Indian coast.

Associated flooding, landslides, and transportation disruptions are likely in the affected areas.

Advice

Individuals in the affected areas are advised to keep abreast of the situation, allow additional travel time, avoid areas directly hit by flooding, and adhere to any orders issued by the local authorities or their home governments.

Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded. Be aware that the risk of contracting water- and mosquito-borne diseases tends to rise after periods of heavy rainfall.