Heavy Rainfall Triggers Red Alert in Kerala's Eight Districts

Severe Weather Warnings Issued

Thiruvananthapuram, August 4 - Amidst heavy rainfall across various regions of Kerala, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for eight districts in the state on Tuesday. The districts affected include Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod. Additionally, an orange alert has been declared for four districts: Alappuzha, Thrissur, Palakkad, and Malappuram, while a yellow alert is in effect for Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam.

Understanding the Alerts

The red alert indicates a forecast of more than 20 centimeters of heavy rainfall within 24 hours. In contrast, the orange alert signifies very heavy rainfall between 11 to 20 centimeters, and the yellow alert warns of heavy rainfall ranging from 6 to 11 centimeters. Earlier reports from the weather agency noted that the highest rainfall was recorded in the northern districts during a 21-hour period ending at 5:30 AM on Tuesday.

Impact of Flooding

Continuous rainfall 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. Many essential documents and children's school books have been lost in the floods. State Tourism Minister P.C. Vishnunath announced that special courts will be established to assist in reissuing lost documents, and the government will ensure that children receive necessary textbooks and study materials.

Government Response and Assistance

The government has allocated ₹25,000 for cleaning efforts in each ward, and numerous volunteer organizations are stepping in to assist households affected by the flooding. Furthermore, the Chief Minister has pledged immediate financial aid to those who have lost their homes and livelihoods. The IMD had previously issued an orange alert for 12 districts and a yellow alert for two districts on August 4.

Rainfall Statistics

According to the IMD, the highest rainfall recorded in the state was 121.5 millimeters in Byar, Kasaragod, from 3 AM to midnight on August 3. Other notable rainfall amounts included 81 millimeters in Muliyar, 74 millimeters at Kannur Airport, and 65 millimeters in Urumi, Kozhikode.

River Levels and Safety Measures

Official reports indicate that the water levels of the Muattupuzha and Todupuzha rivers remained above warning levels as of Tuesday morning, although they are now decreasing. At 8 AM, the Muattupuzha River was recorded at 11.60 meters, above the warning level of 10.92 meters and close to the danger mark of 11.93 meters. The Todupuzha River was at 11.50 meters, with a warning level of 10.78 meters and a danger level of 11.79 meters. Meanwhile, the Kaliara River was flowing at 12.26 meters, below its warning level of 13.10 meters and danger level of 14.10 meters.

Ongoing Monitoring

Authorities are closely monitoring the river levels and have advised residents in coastal areas to remain vigilant as the monsoon continues to bring rainfall to various parts of the state.