Thiruvananthapuram: An orange alert has been issued in 12 districts, from Pathanamthitta to Kasaragod, today as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts heavy rainfall. The department has also warned of strong winds reaching speeds of up to 60 kmph.

The search continues for four people reported missing in Kannur and Thiruvananthapuram.

In view of the adverse weather, District Collectors have declared a holiday for all educational institutions in 10 districts — Kasaragod, Kozhikode, Malappuram, Thrissur, Palakkad, Ernakulam, Kottayam, Alappuzha, Idukki and Pathanamthitta.

The holiday also applies to educational institutions, excluding professional colleges, in the Payyanur, Taliparamba and Iritty taluks of Kannur district, as well as schools functioning as relief camps in Wayanad. The Kerala Public Service Commission (PSC) has also postponed all online examinations scheduled until August 10 due to the prevailing weather conditions.
Landslide threat in Varkala

Following heavy rains, there is a threat of landslides in the Papansham hills of Varkala, but tourists continuing adventurous activities in a dangerous manner are troubling the authorities. Taking selfies and videos from the helipad area and the top of the hill without heeding restrictions could lead to a major tragedy. The absence of adequate police personnel is hindering the enforcement of restrictions.


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The Chief Minister VD Satheesan will visit the flood-affected areas including Aranmula and Ranni today, which have been further affected by the monsoon. Although the water in Aranmula has started to recede slowly (it has gone down by about a foot last night), people's concerns have not abated. The water level is receding very slowly as the Muzhiyar dam has been opened. Many people are staying in their homes as their houses have a second floor and are unwilling to move to relief camps. The slow rate of water recession and the possibility of heavy rainfall continue to increase concerns in Aranmula.


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Waterlogging is severe in the Tiruvalla region. Traffic has been disrupted due to water entering the State Highway in Thirumoolapuram. The rising water levels in the Pamba, Manimala, and Achenkovil rivers are causing great concern.