Kerala hit by heavy summer rains; lightning strike kills man in Malappuram

Kozhikode: Summer rains have intensified across Kerala, with heavy showers reported in the northern and central parts of the state, causing widespread damage. One person was killed after being struck by lightning in Edavanna, Malappuram district.

The deceased is a 65-year-old man from Palapatta. The incident happened while he was standing in the courtyard of his house. Though he was rushed to the hospital, his life could not be saved. Rainfall in southern Kerala has been comparatively less intense.

In the Kozhikode district, hilly regions, including Kuttiady, witnessed heavy rain accompanied by thunder and lightning. Strong winds uprooted trees in several areas and damaged buildings.

In Koyilandy, a motorcyclist sustained serious injuries after a tree branch fell on him. The heavy winds that accompanied the rain also caused extensive damage to agricultural land. Pavithran, a farmer from Kavilumpara, reported that around 1,000 out of nearly 2,000 banana plants he had cultivated were destroyed due to strong winds.

Kannur also experienced heavy rainfall, with trees uprooted in multiple locations, disrupting traffic. The roofs of several houses were damaged, leading to significant losses. Kottayam and Ernakulam also saw heavy rainfall, accompanied by thunder and lightning.

The meteorological department has warned of isolated thunderstorms with lightning in various districts over the next three hours. Authorities have urged the public to remain cautious as rainfall is likely to continue in the coming hours.