The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red alerts for five districts in Kerala over Sunday and Monday, October 25 and 26, warning of extremely heavy rainfall. Residents, particularly those in hilly areas and flood-prone locations, have been advised to remain cautious.

Red alert in Kerala: Districts to watch

The IMD has forecast extremely heavy rainfall in the following districts:

  • Sunday, October 25: Malappuram, Kozhikode and Wayanad
  • Monday, October 26: Idukki and Palakkad

A red alert indicates the possibility of extremely heavy rainfall exceeding 204.4 mm in 24 hours.

Orange alert on Saturday and Sunday

Several districts are also under orange alert, indicating the possibility of very heavy rainfall.

  • Saturday, October 24: Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod
  • Sunday, October 25: Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad and Kannur

An orange alert indicates rainfall of 115.6 mm to 204.4 mm in 24 hours.

What should people in Kerala be careful about?

Heavy rainfall could lead to flash floods, waterlogging, landslides and mudslides, particularly in hilly areas and low-lying locations.

People living in landslide-prone areas should be prepared to move to safer locations if needed. The IMD and disaster management authorities have also advised people to:

  • Avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rain.
  • Stay away from rivers and other water bodies when rainfall is intense.
  • Avoid night travel in hilly areas.
  • Be cautious on roads prone to flooding and near unstable trees, electric poles and structures.
  • Report dangerous fallen or damaged power lines to KSEB by calling 1912.

For emergency assistance, people can contact the district control rooms through 1077 or the state control room through 1070.

The IMD may revise the alerts depending on changing weather conditions. Residents are advised to follow official weather updates and local administration instructions.