Severe Rainfall Continues to Affect Kerala, Prompting Evacuations and Emergency Measures
Heavy Rainfall Causes Flooding in Kerala
Thiruvananthapuram, August 4 - Kerala is experiencing a relentless spell of heavy rainfall, with the northern districts recording the highest precipitation over the past 21 hours until 5:30 AM on Tuesday, as reported by the meteorological department. The ongoing downpour has led to flooding in several low-lying and riverbank areas of Alappuzha, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, and Kozhikode, forcing residents to seek refuge in relief camps.
In this disaster, many individuals have lost important documents and children's school books. State Tourism Minister P.C. Vishnunath announced that special courts will be established to assist in the re-issuance of lost documents, and the government will ensure that children receive the necessary textbooks and study materials. Additionally, he mentioned that the government has allocated ₹25,000 for cleaning efforts in each ward, with numerous volunteer organizations stepping in to help clean homes that were inundated.
Furthermore, the Chief Minister has declared that financial assistance will be provided promptly to those who have lost their homes and livelihoods. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an 'Orange Alert' for 12 districts and a 'Yellow Alert' for two districts today. According to the IMD, the highest rainfall of 121.5 millimeters was recorded in Bayar, Kasaragod, from 3 AM to midnight on August 3.
In Muliyar, Kasaragod, 81 millimeters of rain was recorded, while Kannur Airport saw 74 millimeters. Kozhikode's Urumi experienced 65 millimeters of rainfall, and Cheruvancheri in Kannur and RARS Pilicode in Kasaragod both recorded 59.5 millimeters.
In addition, Neriyamangalam in Ernakulam received 59 millimeters of rain. The IMD classifies rainfall of 60 millimeters or more within a 24-hour period as 'heavy rain.' Official reports indicate that the water levels of the Muattupuzha and Thodupuzha rivers remained above warning levels on Tuesday morning, although the levels are now decreasing.
Officials reported that at 8 AM, the Muattupuzha River's water level was recorded at 11.60 meters, exceeding the warning level of 10.92 meters and nearing the danger mark of 11.93 meters. They noted that the water level is declining. The Thodupuzha River's level was recorded at 11.50 meters at the same time, with a warning level of 10.78 meters and a danger level of 11.79 meters. Meanwhile, the Kaliyar River was flowing at 12.26 meters, below its warning level of 13.10 meters and danger level of 14.10 meters. The water levels of these rivers are also decreasing.
Authorities are closely monitoring the rivers and have advised residents in coastal areas to remain vigilant, as the monsoon continues to bring rainfall to various parts of the state.