Kerala weather alert: IMD issues red alert in 9 districts as extremely heavy rain predicted today
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Red Alert for nine districts in Kerala on Saturday, August 1, warning of extremely heavy rainfall and the possibility of weather-related hazards, including flash floods, landslides and waterlogging.
According to the latest forecast, the Red Alert has been issued for:
- Pathanamthitta
- Kottayam
- Idukki
- Thrissur
- Malappuram
- Kozhikode
- Wayanad
- Kannur
- Kasaragod
A Red Alert indicates the likelihood of extremely heavy rainfall exceeding 204.4 mm within 24 hours, requiring people in vulnerable areas to remain on high alert.
Orange Alert in five districts
The IMD has also issued an Orange Alert for the following districts:
- Thiruvananthapuram
- Kollam
- Alappuzha
- Ernakulam
- Palakkad
An Orange Alert means very heavy rainfall between 115.6 mm and 204.4 mm within 24 hours is expected at isolated places.
Yellow Alert for Sunday
For August 2 (Sunday), a Yellow Alert has been issued for:
- Pathanamthitta
- Kottayam
- Idukki
- Ernakulam
- Kozhikode
- Wayanad
- Kannur
- Kasaragod
A Yellow Alert indicates the possibility of heavy rainfall ranging from 64.5 mm to 115.5 mm within 24 hours at isolated locations.
Risk of flash floods and landslides
The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has warned that intense rainfall over a short period could trigger flash floods, rapid rise in water levels, urban flooding, landslides and mudslides, particularly in hilly regions and low-lying areas where the ground is already saturated.
Residents living in landslide-prone areas have been advised to shift to safer locations if directed by authorities. Those in flood-prone areas should also be prepared to move to relief camps if necessary.
People have been urged to avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rain, especially to hill stations, waterfalls and other tourist destinations. Crossing rivers, entering water bodies or venturing into flooded areas has also been strongly discouraged.
Authorities have also cautioned against standing on bridges over swollen rivers to watch the flow or take photographs and selfies.
Public advised to remain alert
The Disaster Management Authority has asked local bodies and district administrations to keep relief camps ready in districts under Red and Orange Alerts. Residents in vulnerable areas are advised to identify the nearest relief camp in advance and prepare an emergency kit with essential documents, medicines and other necessities.
Motorists have been asked to exercise caution on roads near rivers, waterlogged stretches and locations where roadwork is underway, as heavy rain may increase the risk of accidents.
People are also advised to stay away from fallen electricity lines and report any damaged power lines to KSEB on 1912.
Emergency assistance is available through the 24x7 district and taluk control rooms. Residents can contact the toll-free emergency numbers 1077 or 1070 if they require assistance.
The IMD has said the alert levels may be revised depending on changes in weather conditions.