Kerala red alert: Holiday for educational institutions in Wayanad, Malappuram, Kozhikode on Oct 25

Kozhikode: Educational institutions in Wayanad, Malappuram and Kozhikode districts have been declared closed on October 25 following a red alert issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

Wayanad District Collector V Chelsasini confirmed that Sunday's holiday applies to religious education classes, tuition centres and special classes in the district.

Malappuram District Collector Dr Vinay Goyal announced that the closure extends to Anganwadis, madrasas, tuition centres, parallel colleges and coaching institutions.

Kozhikode District Collector M S Madhavikutty similarly declared a holiday for all educational institutions, including Anganwadis, madrasas, tuition centres, parallel colleges and coaching centres, in view of predicted extremely heavy winds and rain.

However, the holiday will not apply to residential educational institutions or hostels. Malappuram District Collector clarified that pre-scheduled university and public examinations will proceed as planned.

District Collectors have urged the public to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions against hazards caused by heavy rainfall, including landslides, flash floods, waterlogging and strong winds. Residents in disaster-prone hilly regions have been advised to relocate to safer locations during the daytime itself. Those residing in low-lying areas subject to chronic waterlogging or in unsafe housing must assess their situation and cooperate with authorities if instructed to shift to relief camps.

The administration has directed property owners to secure dangerous trees, utility poles, hoardings and boundary walls on private and public premises. Any hazardous situations should be reported immediately to the relevant authorities.

The public is strictly advised against crossing rivers, bathing, fishing or entering water bodies during heavy downpours. All recreational trips and night travel to hilly areas remain prohibited until the weather warnings are lifted. Gathering, sightseeing or taking selfies on bridges over swollen water bodies is strictly banned.

Coastal residents facing sea erosion risks are advised to exercise caution, move to safer places when directed, and secure their fishing gear.

Individuals in vulnerable zones are urged to keep emergency kits ready with essential documents and supplies. Citizens must also exercise extreme caution regarding fallen power lines and ensure waterlogged areas are free of electrical hazards before stepping in. Electrical faults should be reported immediately to KSEB via 1912. For emergency assistance, the public can reach the taluk and district control rooms 24/7 via toll-free numbers 1077 and 1070.