High Waves and Strong Winds Threaten Kerala Coast: Fishing Banned, Coastal Alert Issued

Thiruvananthapuram:  The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) has issued a high alert for the Kerala coast, warning of the possibility of high waves and coastal inundation, particularly in parts of Kasaragod district from Kunjathur to Kottakkunnu. The warring states that wave heights could reach between 3.1 and 3.4 meters on June 28. Coastal residents and fishing communities in the affected areas have been urged to remain highly vigilant and take necessary precautions.

In addition to this, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has banned all fishing activities along the Kerala, Karnataka, and Lakshadweep coasts for today and tomorrow due to the potential for rough seas and strong winds. Wind speeds are expected to range between 40 and 50 km/h, with occasional gusts reaching up to 60 km/h, creating dangerous conditions for marine activity.

Authorities have instructed residents in vulnerable coastal areas to relocate to safer locations if necessary and to comply with evacuation orders and official guidelines. Small fishing boats and canoes should not be taken out to sea during this period. The risk of sneaker waves and aggressive tides makes it extremely hazardous not only to fish but also to approach the shore or anchor vessels close to the beach. All forms of beach tourism and recreational activities near the coast have been advised to stop entirely until the warning is lifted. Fishing boats should be securely anchored in harbors with proper spacing between them to prevent damage or collisions. Equipment used for fishing must also be stored safely.

Meanwhile, meteorological warnings continue for broader regions of the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal. On June 27, strong winds reaching speeds of 45 to 55 km/h and in some cases up to 65 km/h are expected over the Somalian coast, as well as the adjoining coasts of Oman and Yemen. Similar conditions are anticipated over the central-western, central-eastern, and southwestern Arabian Sea.

Rough weather with wind speeds ranging from 40 to 50 km/h, occasionally touching 60 km/h, is also forecasted for the Gujarat coast, Konkan and Goa coasts, the northern and southern Andhra Pradesh coast, Tamil Nadu coast, Gulf of Mannar, and the Kanyakumari coast. Parts of the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea will also be affected by strong winds and turbulent weather.

On June 28, these conditions are expected to persist over the same regions, including the Arabian Sea and southern peninsular coasts. Coastal Tamil Nadu, Gulf of Mannar, Kanyakumari, and parts of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha will continue to face adverse marine conditions, with strong winds and sea disturbances likely.

The situation remains unchanged for June 29, with continued rough sea warnings across the Arabian Sea, especially near the Somalian, Yemeni, and Omani coasts. The southern Tamil Nadu coast, Gulf of Mannar, and the Kanyakumari region will also be under alert. In the Bay of Bengal, including the coasts of Bangladesh, West Bengal, Odisha, and northern Andhra Pradesh, strong winds are likely to prevail.

From June 29 to July 1, the central-eastern and central-western Arabian Sea, northeastern Arabian Sea, and coastal areas of Gujarat, Konkan, and Goa will remain affected by strong marine winds, reaching up to 65 km/h in some instances. The Bay of Bengal and adjoining coastal states will continue to experience similar wind speeds and unstable weather conditions.

Fishermen and coastal communities have been strongly advised to remain cautious, avoid venturing into the sea, and follow all official advisories closely. The authorities emphasize that safety measures are critical during this period of increased maritime risk.