Thiruvananthapuram, August 26: Authorities in Kerala have issued a warning regarding the possibility of high waves and rough seas along the southern coast. Fishermen and residents in coastal regions are advised to exercise caution due to the impact of the ‘Kallakkadal’ phenomenon.
The term ‘Kallakkadal’ refers to sudden waves or flooding in coastal areas caused by long ocean swells originating from distant weather systems. This phenomenon can lead to a rapid rise in sea levels, resulting in flooding in low-lying coastal areas, even in the absence of local storms or cyclones.
The National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) has predicted wave heights of 0.9 to 1.2 meters along the coasts of Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and Alappuzha between 8:30 AM and 11:30 PM on August 27.
This warning specifically affects areas from Kappil to Pozhiyoor in Thiruvananthapuram, from Alappad to Edava in Kollam, and from Chelanam to Azhikkal Jetty in Alappuzha.
The situation is expected to be more severe at the Kanyakumari coast, where wave heights of 1.1 to 1.5 meters may occur between 2:30 AM and 11:30 PM on Thursday.
In light of the potential for flooding and erosion, residents in at-risk areas are advised to move to safer locations as per local authorities’ instructions.
Fishermen are urged not to launch small boats or fishing vessels into the sea during rough conditions, as both activities pose significant risks. Fishing boats should be securely docked at ports, maintaining adequate distance between them to prevent collisions and damage to fishing gear.
Officials have also recommended that people stay away from beaches and avoid all water-related recreational activities until the INCOIS warning is lifted. Additionally, tourism and other activities near the shore should be halted during the warning period. Coastal residents are particularly urged to remain vigilant about sudden sea level rises and coastal erosion, especially in vulnerable areas.
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