Monsoon covers Kerala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The South West Monsoon was vigorous on Saturday as it further advanced to the northern parts, covering the whole state.

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

Apart from Kerala, most places in Lakshwadeep 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 ten cm each while Kochi and Haripad got nine cm.

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

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