Thiruvananthapuram: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded a red alert in four districts of North Kerala today Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod citing the likelihood of extremely heavy rainfall exceeding 204 mm in 24 hours. The red alert will expand to include Malappuram tomorrow, as the monsoon intensifies across the state.
This heightened warning is part of a larger alert system, with orange alerts issued in several central districts and yellow alerts in parts of southern Kerala, including Ernakulam, Kottayam, and Idukki, over the next 48 hours. The IMD attributes this weather pattern to a depression over southeast Uttar Pradesh, which is drawing moisture-laden winds over the Western Ghats and increasing rainfall intensity in Kerala.
The threat of landslides, flash floods, and river overflows looms large, especially in hilly and low-lying regions. Authorities have specifically warned residents living along the banks of Korappuzha, Kuttiyadi, Perumba, Uppala, and Shiriya rivers, where water levels have already begun to rise.
Adding to the concern is the forecast of strong surface winds ranging from 40 to 60 km/h along Kerala's coastal belts. Fishermen have been strongly advised not to venture into the sea, especially off the Kasaragod, Kannur, and Kollam coasts.
Meanwhile, local disaster management teams are on high alert. Emergency response units have been stationed in vulnerable regions, with evacuation shelters, medical aid stations, and 24-hour monitoring systems already in place. The state government has asked district collectors to stay in full preparedness for any eventuality.
Kerala’s monsoon, often unpredictable and destructive, has previously led to devastating floods in 2018 and 2019. With this warning, authorities and citizens alike are urged to act with caution and prioritize safety, as the state enters another spell of intense rainfall.
Stay tuned to local weather bulletins and disaster alerts for real-time updates and instructions.