Severe Rainfall in Kerala Claims Lives and Displaces Thousands
Impact of Heavy Rainfall in Kerala
Thiruvananthapuram, August 4 - The relentless downpour in Kerala since August 1 has resulted in the tragic loss of 25 lives, with four individuals reported missing and ten others injured, as confirmed by the state government on Tuesday. The heavy rainfall has forced thousands to seek refuge in relief camps across the state.
According to government reports, between August 1 and August 4, 52 houses were completely destroyed, while 565 others suffered partial damage. Over 18,000 individuals have been accommodated in more than 400 relief camps established statewide, with the highest numbers coming from the districts of Pathanamthitta (7,852), Kottayam (5,288), and Alappuzha (2,651), where many areas remain inundated.
Official data indicates that rainfall during this period was nearly three times the normal levels. The meteorological department reported that Kerala received 205.8 millimeters of rain from August 1 to August 4, significantly exceeding the normal average of 73.2 millimeters by 181 percent. In light of the ongoing heavy rains, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a 'Red Alert' for the districts of Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod.
Additionally, 'Orange Alerts' have been issued for the districts of Alappuzha, Thrissur, Palakkad, and Malappuram, while 'Yellow Alerts' are in effect for Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam. The department noted that the highest rainfall was recorded in the northern districts during a 21-hour period ending at 5:30 AM on Tuesday. Continuous rainfall has left many low-lying and riverbank areas in Alappuzha, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, and Kozhikode submerged, compelling residents to move to relief camps.
The disaster has also resulted in the loss of vital documents and schoolbooks for children. 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 necessary textbooks and study materials. He also mentioned that the government has allocated ₹25,000 for cleaning efforts in each ward, with several volunteer organizations stepping in to assist households affected by flooding.
Furthermore, the Chief Minister has pledged immediate financial assistance to those who have lost their homes and livelihoods. The IMD issued 'Orange Alerts' for 12 districts and 'Yellow Alerts' for two districts on August 4. According to the IMD, the highest rainfall of 121.5 millimeters was recorded in Byar, Kasaragod, from 3 AM to midnight on August 3.
In Muliyar, Kasaragod, 81 millimeters of rain was recorded, while 74 millimeters fell at Kannur Airport. Urumi in Kozhikode saw 65 millimeters of rainfall, and Cheruvanchery in Kannur and RARS Pilicode in Kasaragod each recorded 59.5 millimeters.
In addition, Neriyamangalam in Ernakulam experienced 59 millimeters of rain. Official reports indicate that the water levels of the Muattupuzha and Thodupuzha rivers remained above warning levels on Tuesday morning, although they are now receding. Authorities reported that at 8 AM, the Muattupuzha River's water level was recorded at 11.60 meters, above the warning level of 10.92 meters and nearing the danger mark of 11.93 meters.
The water level is decreasing. The Thodupuzha River's level was recorded at 11.50 meters at 8 AM, 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 declining. Officials 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.