Severe Rainfall Warning Issued in Kerala Amid Flooding Concerns
Heavy Rain Alerts in Kerala
Thiruvananthapuram, August 6 - The India Meteorological Department has issued a 'red' alert for three districts in Kerala, predicting extremely heavy rainfall on Thursday. Meanwhile, officials have reported that water levels in several flood-affected areas are beginning to recede.
The 'red' alert indicates the possibility of more than 204 millimeters of intense rainfall within 24 hours, while an 'orange' alert signifies expected rainfall between 115 to 204 millimeters. Additionally, the department has issued an 'orange' alert for Kollam, Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Kannur, and Kasaragod districts.
Officials noted that floodwaters in many low-lying areas of Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, and Ernakulam districts are starting to decrease. However, the upper Kuttanad and Kuttanad regions in Alappuzha district still face flooding, although water levels are gradually dropping.
According to the Alappuzha district administration, 118 relief camps are currently operational in Cherthala, Ambalappuzha, Kuttanad, Kartikappally, Mavelikkara, and Chengannur taluks, accommodating a total of 14,646 individuals from 5,012 families.
Several major roads, including the Alappuzha-Changanassery and Ambalappuzha-Thiruvalla routes, remain submerged, disrupting transportation. The district administration has declared a holiday for educational institutions in flood-affected areas. An 'orange' alert has also been issued for Friday in Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod districts.
The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority has advised residents to avoid rivers and other water bodies during heavy rainfall. They have urged the public to refrain from unnecessary travel during intense rain and to stay away from waterfalls, water bodies, and mountainous tourist spots. Drivers are advised to exercise caution on roads near water bodies and those undergoing repairs, as the risk of accidents increases during heavy rainfall.
The authority has also cautioned against gathering on bridges over rivers and other water bodies for selfies and advised against nighttime travel in hilly areas. They warned of potential accidents due to uprooted trees and damaged power poles caused by strong winds.