Kochi: Bringing much relief to the scorching summer heat, many areas in the district received moderate to heavy summer rains on Wednesday. Almost all parts of the district have experienced cool showers with the eastern parts of Ernakulam getting heavy rain and strong winds.
The city and outskirts also received good summer rains which turned to be a big relief for the traders and city residents as the rain suppressed the billowing dust clouds from various construction sites including Metro Rail sites and Vyttila and Kundanoor flyovers. The rainfall eased the escalating day temperature by a couple of degrees.
However, the city will be flooded if heavy summer showers last for couple of days, as the Corporation authorities have not yet started the pre-monsoon cleaning of drains and canals. All canals and drains are clogged and even a light rain can flood the city areas.
Areas like Koothattuku-lam, Kothamangalam and Muvattupuzha have been receiving light rains with thunderstorm for last few days.
The IMD forecast light to heavy summer rains in different parts of the state in next five days. The department has issued alert for Malappuram as there are chances for heavy summer rains.
As per the IMD data from March 1 to April 17, Ernakulam is largely deficient in summer rains. While the normal rainfall during the period is 84.3 millimeter, the district received only 15.8 mm. However, when compared to districts like Thrissur and Kozhikode, rainfall in Ernakulam is much better.
