The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for eight districts in Kerala, warning of extremely heavy rainfall on Saturday (August 01). The forecast comes as heavy rain has already claimed lives, triggered floods, landslides and caused widespread damage in several parts of the state. The weather department has also forecast widespread rainfall across Kerala over the next five days.

The forecast, issued at 7 am on Saturday (August 01), places Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod under a red alert. According to the IMD, these districts could receive more than 204.4 mm of rainfall within 24 hours, which qualifies as extremely heavy rainfall.

Orange and yellow alerts issued

An orange alert has been declared for Ernakulam, Thrissur and Palakkad on Saturday (August 01), indicating the likelihood of very heavy rainfall. The IMD defines very heavy rainfall as 115.6 mm to 204.4 mm within 24 hours.

A yellow alert has been issued for Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam and Alappuzha on Saturday (August 01).

For Sunday (August 02), the IMD has placed Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod under a yellow alert, warning of isolated heavy rainfall. Heavy rainfall refers to 64.5 mm to 115.5 mm within 24 hours.

IMD warns of floods, landslides and waterlogging

The IMD has warned that the expected spell of extremely heavy rainfall could create dangerous conditions across the state. Intense downpours over a short period may trigger flash floods and rapid surface runoff, while urban centres and low-lying areas face the risk of waterlogging.

With rain expected to persist, the likelihood of landslides and mudslides could increase, particularly in vulnerable hilly regions. The weather department has urged the public and government agencies to remain on high alert and take all necessary precautions.