Due to severe weather conditions, IndiGo Airlines has cancelled all flights to and from Kerala’s Kannur and Tamil Nadu’s Tuticorin on Saturday. The airline alerted passengers through a post on X, urging them to verify their flight status before heading to the airport.
“Due to weather conditions, flights to/from #Tuticorin & #Kannur are impacted. Please check your flight status before heading to the airport,” read IndiGo’s official statement.
Heavy Rainfall Predicted in Southern States
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast very heavy rainfall in southern Kerala and southern Tamil Nadu, with precipitation levels expected to range between 12 and 20 centimetres. According to IMD scientist Soma Sen Roy, the region is experiencing widespread rainfall, contributing to localised flooding and disruptions.
Several districts in Kerala and Tamil Nadu have been significantly impacted by the continuous downpour. In Tamil Nadu, districts like Tirunelveli, Tenkasi, and Tuticorin have recorded heavy to very heavy rainfall, leading to flooding in the Thamirabarani River.
In Kerala, the IMD has issued an orange alert for Pathanamthitta, Kollam, and Thiruvananthapuram districts, signalling the likelihood of very heavy rainfall. Six other districts in the state are under a yellow alert, warning of heavy rainfall ranging from 6 cm to 11 cm in 24 hours.
Low-Pressure Area Over Bay of Bengal
Adding to the concerns, a low-pressure area is expected to form over the southeast Bay of Bengal around December 15. This development could further intensify the rain activity across the southern region, exacerbating the challenges posed by the current weather conditions.
Given the prevailing conditions, passengers travelling to or from affected regions are advised to check flight status and plan accordingly.