IMD issues orange alert for seven Kerala districts as heavy rain intensifiesKerala is set for widespread rainfall over the next 48 hours, with the IMD issuing orange alerts for seven districts. Authorities have stepped up precautionary measures as heavy rainfall is likely to continue, while the weather system is also expected to provide much-needed recharge to rivers, reservoirs and groundwater after recent dry spells in several regions. An orange alert has been issued for seven districts, Kasaragod, Kannur, Ernakulam, Idukki, Kottayam, Alappuzha and Pathanamthitta, while the remaining seven districts are under a yellow alert. The IMD has warned that northern Kerala could receive extremely heavy rainfall on Friday, with residents in hilly and landslide-prone areas advised to remain vigilant. With the southwest monsoon remaining active, officials say timely preparedness and public cooperation will be key to ensuring the state safely weathers the latest spell of heavy rain.