Severe Rainfall Causes Flooding in Kerala, Relief Efforts Underway
Heavy Rainfall Leads to Flooding in Kerala
Thiruvananthapuram, August 5 - Torrential rains continued across various regions of Kerala on Wednesday, resulting in widespread flooding and submerged roads. Officials reported the establishment of additional relief camps, and residents from low-lying areas have been evacuated for safety. The southern districts of Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, and Kottayam have been severely affected, with persistent downpours disrupting daily life.
In many flooded areas, elderly individuals, women, and children were seen wading through knee-deep water. The ongoing flooding has forced more residents to seek refuge in relief camps, as water levels remain high in several homes. Authorities indicated that more camps have been set up to accommodate those evacuated due to the relentless rain.
Significant rainfall was also recorded in northern districts, including the hilly regions of Kozhikode and Kannur. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert for five districts in Kerala, warning of extremely heavy rainfall, while the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) cautioned about high waves and potential sea inundation in parts of the southern coast. The IMD's orange alert specifically covers Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Kannur, and Kasaragod.
The weather agency stated that the alert will remain in effect for Thursday in Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Kannur, and Kasaragod. An orange alert has also been issued for Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod for Friday, with forecasts indicating heavy rainfall in certain areas, and very heavy rainfall expected on August 6 and 7.
INCOIS has issued a warning regarding a marine phenomenon known as Kallakkadal, which can cause sudden high and turbulent waves in the sea, leading to coastal flooding. This warning applies to coastal stretches from Kappil to Pozhiyoor in Thiruvananthapuram district, from Alappad to Edava in Kollam district, and from Chellanam to Azhikkal Jetty in Alappuzha district.
As of Thursday afternoon, INCOIS warned of wave heights reaching between 1.2 to 1.6 meters along the Kanyakumari coast, with the potential for seawater to encroach into inland areas. Authorities have advised fishermen, coastal residents, and the general public to remain vigilant and avoid sensitive coastal areas during the warning period. In light of these alerts, the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has urged fishermen and coastal inhabitants to stay cautious and refrain from visiting beaches and engaging in tourism activities until the warnings are lifted, as soil erosion along the coasts may occur.
Amid the ongoing rainfall, KSDMA has advised individuals living in hilly areas prone to landslides, debris flow, and flash floods to seek safe locations during the day. Residents in low-lying areas at risk of flooding have also been encouraged to assess local conditions before heading to relief camps. People are advised against swimming, fishing, or engaging in any activities in rivers and other water bodies during heavy rainfall.
The disaster management authority has appealed to the public to avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rain and to stay away from waterfalls, reservoirs, and hilly tourist spots until weather warnings are lifted. Drivers are advised to exercise caution when traveling on roads near water sources and those undergoing repairs, as the risk of accidents increases during heavy rainfall. Additionally, people are cautioned against gathering on bridges over rivers or water bodies for sightseeing or selfies, and nighttime travel in hilly areas should be avoided.
The authority has also warned of accidents caused by fallen trees and damaged power poles due to strong winds. Educational institutions in ten districts affected by the heavy rainfall, including Idukki and Kottayam, remained closed on Wednesday.