Swell waves hit Kanyakumari as red alert stays in force along Keralam coast
Swell waves of up to 1.5 metres with a 20-24 second period struck parts of Kanyakumari on September 26 as a red alert continued along the Keralam coast.
Swell waves have begun affecting the southern tip of the peninsula, with parts of Kanyakumari recording wave activity on September 26 even as a red alert remains in force along the Keralam coast.
The waves were observed with a period of 20 to 24 seconds and a height of up to 1.5 metres, according to the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA).
Ahead of the main swell event, precursor waves had already started reaching the Keralam shoreline, signalling the approach of the larger wave train.
A red alert stays in place for the Keralam coast, indicating continued high-risk conditions in the nearshore waters. Authorities have not indicated any change in the alert status so far.
Swell waves of this kind are long-period waves generated by distant weather systems and can cause sudden surges along the coast even in fair local weather. The combination of a long period and wave heights touching 1.5 metres raises the potential for coastal flooding and strong currents in low-lying areas.
With the alert still active, coastal communities and those venturing into the sea are expected to remain on guard until conditions ease.