Kerala rains: Emergency centres opened, NDRF teams ready in 7 districts

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan has issued a directive for district and taluk-level emergency operation centres to remain active 24/7, considering the anticipated heavy rainfall in Kerala over the next five days. The State Emergency Operation Center has been activated, with representatives from various departments and the National Disaster Response Force in attendance. To ensure prompt response during emergencies, the Chief Minister stated that seven teams from the National Disaster Response Force have been deployed across Idukki, Pathanamthitta, Malappuram, Wayanad, Kozhikode, Alappuzha, and Thrissur districts.

According to the India Meteorological Department, widespread rainfall, heavy showers at isolated locations, and exceptionally heavy rain on some days are expected. Consequently, a red alert has been issued for Ernakulam district on Monday, followed by Idukki and Kannur districts on Tuesday.

In light of these conditions, it is imperative to heed the warnings and avoid crossing or entering rivers for any purpose, swimming, fishing, or engaging in any activities that involve water bodies. Nighttime travel to hilly areas should be minimised whenever possible. Residents in coastal regions should stay cautious about high waves and storm surges. The CM also emphasised the importance of refraining from beach visits.

Furthermore, it is advised to avoid fishing along Kerala, Karnataka, and Lakshadweep coasts. Special precautions must be taken to prevent accidents caused by strg winds.

Districts under orange alert:

03-07-2023: Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, Kasaragod 

04-07-2023: Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kasaragod 

05-07-2023: Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, Kasaragod 

06-07-2023: Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur, Kasaragod

Districts under yellow alert:

03-07-2023: Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam 

04-07-2023: Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam 

05-07-2023: Kollam 

06-07-2023: Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Wayanad 

07-07-2023: Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, Kasaragod