Monsoon gains momentum on day two in Kerala

Thiruvananthapuram, May 27 (UNI) The southwest monsoon gained momentum today and further advanced into the northern parts, covering whole of Kerala.

The monsoon, which set in the state yesterday, much earlier than the usual date, was further advancing to other parts of South India, the Met department here said.

As the monsoon strengthened, there were reports of rain related incidents from several parts of the state.

A report from Alappuzha said about six houses were destroyed completely and 15 were partially damaged. Sea erosion was also reported from Arattupuzha in Alapuzha and Kozhikode.

A Kozhikode report said low lying areas were inundated.

Apart from Kerala, most places in Lakshadweep also experienced heavy rains with the northern district of Kasargode receiving the highest rainfall of 17 cm followed by Kudalloor at 12 cm.

Ponnani, Koilandi and Thalassery received 10 cm each while Kochi and Haripad received nine cm.

Kannur, Kozhikode, Kodungaloor, Paravoor and Mangombu recorded eight cm while Alappuzha, Ameni, Irikkur, iringalakuda, Perumbavur, Thrissur, Kanjirapally and Varkala received seven cm each.

The Met department warned of heavy rainfall in the next two days in Kerala and Lakshadweep. It also warned of strong onshore winds with speeds reaching 45/50 kmph, from the westerly direction.

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