Heavy rains in Kerala: IMD issues orange alert for 4, yellow for 7 districts

Thiruvananthapuram: Heavy rainfall continued to batter parts of Kerala on Sunday as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued fresh alerts warning of intense downpours, thunderstorms, and gusty winds in several districts.

Orange alert

An orange alert has been issued for Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur and Kasaragod districts, where very heavy rainfall measuring between 115.6 mm and 204.4 mm is expected within 24 hours.

Yellow alert

A yellow alert has been issued for Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad and Wayanad districts, forecasting heavy rainfall ranging between 64.5 mm and 115.5 mm in 24 hours, along with possible thunderstorms.

Authorities have urged residents to stay cautious, particularly those living in landslide-prone and low-lying regions, and to adhere to the safety instructions issued by local administrations. People living on the banks of rivers and downstream of dams have been asked to evacuate as per official instructions.

Those residing in disaster-prone regions should ensure that relief camps are opened in their area and stay there during the day. Individuals living in weak or unsecured houses, especially with fragile roofs, are advised to take extra precautions considering the likelihood of strong winds.

Officials have also warned the public not to cross rivers or engage in activities such as bathing or fishing in rivers and other water bodies during heavy rainfall.