As the Cyclone Ochki advances, pilgrims heading to Sabarimala have been alerted not to bathe or take a dip in the river Pamba as a precaution due to the sudden swelling of the river. Pilgrims have also been warned against trekking to the shrine through the forest route since it has been experiencing heavy winds since last afternoon that has led to pulling down of trees.
The routes through Azhutha and Karimala have turned muddy and slippery due to which pilgrims are at risk. Devotees are asked not to park their cars and vehicles under trees and to stay away from any waterbodies and electrical installations.
PC: Khaled Ashgr
All in all, no pilgrims are allowed to travel between 6 pm to 7 pm to the shrine; pilgrims near Sannidhanam and Pamba must stay put in case the authorities say so; they must restrain from resting near trees or waterbodies; avoid taking baths in the river; forest routes cannot be used until the alert is lifted.
The Cyclone Ochki originated from the depression above Bay of Bengal, which initiated a storm in many places in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Stormy weather has been forecast in many towns in the central region and southern coast of Kerala.
Many districts in both Tamil Nadu and Kerala have declared holidays for schools and colleges. Citizens are advised to stay indoors as much as possible. Also, fishermen are advised to stay ashore.
PC: Mariamichelle
Avoid travelling to Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Idukki and Kottayam districts in Kerala since high alert has been issued by the State Disaster Management Authority. Hilly districts are advised to stay put since landslides are expected. Avoid travelling to Lakshadweep as well since blustery rains are expected to go on till Sunday.
According to meteorologists, the cyclone is heading towards Lakshadweep so landfalls are unlikely in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. However, Kanyakumari, Thoothukudi, Thiruvananthapuram and low-lying, coastal regions have experienced uprooting of trees, electric poles and damage of several houses.