Thiruvananthapuram, July 17: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Wednesday predicted heavy rains across Kerala over the next few days as south-west monsoon is expected to gain momentum. The state may witness heavy rains between July 17 and 22. The IMD issued a red alert for six districts - Idukki, Malappuram, Wayanad, Kannur, Ernakulam and Thrissur. While the weather forecasting agency issued a yellow warning for the remaining areas.

The districts where a red alert has been issued are likely to get more than 200 mm of rains. The IMD has also issued a warning of landslides in many areas of the state. As strong winds are likely to hit the coastline of Kerala, fishermen are advised not to venture into the sea. Kerala Floods: State Government To Organise Farewell For Defence Forces For Carrying Out Operation Madad In Flood-Hit Areas.

In the wake of the warning issued by the weather forecasting agency, authorities have also has asked people living in the areas which were flooded last year to be ready with emergency kits. According to reports, Kerala faced 47 percent rain deficit this year. Monsoon Update: Heavy Rainfall Drench Karnataka, Kerala.

Last year, Heavy and incessant rains have lashed Kerala. More than 400 people lost their lives in the floods. The Centre had declared it as ‘the calamity of severe nature’. It was the worst rain-related tragedy in Kerala in the last 100 years.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 17, 2019 11:07 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).