Thiruvananthapuram, August 1: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for heavy rainfall in eight districts of Kerala. The affected districts include Kasaragod, Kannur, Wayanad, Kozhikode, Malappuram, Kottayam, Idukki, and Pathanamthitta.
Additionally, an orange alert has been issued for Palakkad, Thrissur, and Ernakulam, while a yellow alert is in effect for Alappuzha, Kollam, and Thiruvananthapuram. Earlier, the weather department forecasted surface winds of 40 to 50 kilometers per hour for Kerala and Lakshadweep on July 31 and August 1. In light of this forecast, all educational institutions in the hilly areas of Kozhikode district have been closed.
According to the weather department, heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in some areas of Kerala. Rainfall amounts could range from 7 to 11 centimeters in 24 hours, with some areas experiencing up to 20 centimeters of very heavy rain. On August 2, rainfall of 7 to 11 centimeters is anticipated in various locations across Kerala, while Lakshadweep may also see heavy rain on July 31 and August 1.
In the Pathanamthitta region, Laha recorded 236 mm of rain, Venkuringi saw 198.5 mm, and Ranni Chethakkal received 182.5 mm. In the Ernakulam area, Neriyamangalam reported 171.5 mm, and Koothattukulam recorded 114.0 mm. Thiruvananthapuram’s Palode experienced 148.5 mm, while Thattathumala saw 92.0 mm. Other notable rainfall totals include 119.0 mm in Punalur, 69.0 mm in Tenmala, 95.0 mm in Ayyankunnu, and 88.0 mm in Chemberi.
Kozhikode District Collector M.S. Madhavikutty announced on social media platform ‘X’ that a red alert has been issued for the district. Residents, especially those in hilly areas, have been advised to exercise caution. Consequently, educational institutions will remain closed on August 1. However, PSC and university examinations will proceed as scheduled. The order also clarified that online classes will not be affected by the closures.
Due to heavy rainfall, the white-water kayaking competition at the Malabar River Festival has been canceled, as water levels in the Chalipuzha River have risen to dangerous levels.
According to Annakutty Devasi, President of the Kodanchery Gram Panchayat, and Beenu Kuryakos, CEO of Adventure Tourism, this decision was made following advice from fire and rescue services. As a precaution, athletes and all kayaking equipment have been moved to safe locations.
The Panchayat President urged the public to avoid the kayaking center area near Pulikkayam and advised residents of Kodanchery Gram Panchayat to remain alert. People have been warned against approaching the river or any water bodies due to the rising water levels.
In Idukki, a woman lost her life due to a landslide caused by heavy rainfall. Authorities have declared holidays for educational institutions in four districts. Continuous moist winds reaching the coast are attributed to a trough formed along the shoreline. Fishermen have been advised to stay away from the stormy sea due to strong winds. Residents in vulnerable areas should remain vigilant and follow official guidance.
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