Thiruvananthapuram: Heavy rainfall continues to wreak havoc across several parts of Kerala, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing an orange alert in four districts Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur, and Kasaragod warning of intense rainfall between 115.6 mm and 204.4 mm within a 24-hour period. Simultaneously, a yellow alert has been declared in Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, and Palakkad, indicating the likelihood of widespread moderate rainfall accompanied by strong winds reaching speeds of up to 40 kmph, especially in Ernakulam.
In the high-range district of Idukki, the situation has turned grave as relentless downpours have flooded homes, disrupted transport, and triggered minor landslides in several areas. The Kumily region has been particularly affected, where local authorities suspect that two landslides have occurred. The Panchayat President confirmed that residents are safe but reported that traffic along the Kumily–Aanavilasam road has been completely disrupted due to heavy mud and debris. Water levels are rising dangerously in areas such as First Mile, Rosapookandam, and Periyar Colony, forcing the evacuation of residents from flood-prone zones.
Rescue operations are underway as six families and two families from Attappallam have been relocated to nearby resorts for safety. The continuous rainfall has also led to tragic incidents. In Kumily, a man identified as Thankachan from Parappalli lost his life after losing control of his scooter on the slippery road and crashing into a mound of soil that had collapsed amid the rain. The accident occurred on the Kumily–Aanavilasam road, where landslides and fallen debris have made driving conditions extremely hazardous.
The Mullaperiyar Dam has also recorded a significant rise in its water level, now standing at 139.20 feet. The inflow has reached 17,000 cubic feet per second (cusecs), while 8,800 cusecs are being released into the Periyar River. With the strong inflow continuing, officials have warned that water levels could rise further, and have urged residents living along the riverbanks to remain on high alert for possible flash floods.
Meteorological experts have attributed the persistent heavy rainfall to a low-pressure system that developed over the southeast Arabian Sea and the adjoining Kerala–Karnataka coast, which has now intensified into a deep depression. The system is expected to move west-northwestwards and gain further strength within the next 36 hours, increasing the likelihood of widespread rain and thunderstorms across coastal and high-range districts.
The weather department has also outlined the forecast for the coming days. On Monday, a yellow alert will be in effect in Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod. On Tuesday, the alert will continue in Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Thrissur, and Ernakulam, followed by a fresh yellow alert on Wednesday for Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, and Palakkad.
Authorities have warned of several potential impacts due to the ongoing weather conditions. Waterlogging and flooding are likely in low-lying and urban areas, while poor visibility on roads could lead to traffic congestion. There is also a risk of falling trees, power outages, and partial damage to houses and huts in vulnerable areas. In hilly regions, the danger of landslides and mudslides remains high, posing threats to both life and property. Coastal areas may experience rough seas and structural damage due to strong winds and waves.
The State Disaster Management Authority has advised residents to avoid non-essential travel and remain in safe locations until weather conditions stabilize. Local authorities have been directed to regulate traffic, ensure the availability of emergency shelters, and closely monitor reservoir levels. People have also been urged to stay updated with official announcements, avoid venturing near rivers and hillsides, and immediately report any signs of land movement, flooding, or power line damage to nearby authorities.
As Kerala braces for another spell of heavy rain, the state remains on high alert, with emergency services, local bodies, and disaster response teams on standby to tackle the evolving situation.