Rain to Continue in Keralam for Three More Days; Orange Alert Issued in 12 Districts

Thiruvananthapuram: Rain is likely to continue across Keralam for three more days due to a cyclonic circulation that has formed over the south Tamil Nadu coast, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said.

Light rain is likely to continue in several parts of the state until August 7. Strong winds are also likely along the Keralam–Lakshadweep–Karnataka coasts today and tomorrow.

Isolated areas may receive very heavy rainfall. According to the latest weather advisory, an orange alert has been issued in 12 districts: Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod.

So far, 15 people have died in rain-related incidents across the state. More than 300 relief camps have been opened. However, complaints have emerged that essential supplies are not reaching several relief camps.

Public Safety Advisory

People living in areas vulnerable to landslides, mudslides and flash floods should move to safer locations in accordance with instructions issued by authorities. Those living along riverbanks and in downstream areas of dams should also relocate if directed by officials after assessing potential risks.

Residents in disaster-prone areas should ensure that relief camps have been opened in their locality and move to the camps during daytime. They may contact local self-government institutions and Revenue Department officials for assistance.

People living in poorly secured houses or homes with weak roofs should exercise special caution due to the possibility of strong winds. Those facing a potential threat should contact authorities and move to safer locations as a precaution.

People should also remain alert to hazards caused by uprooted trees, fallen electric poles and damaged structures. The precautionary measures issued by the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority for strong winds are available on its official website.

Under no circumstances should people attempt to cross rivers or enter rivers and other water bodies for bathing, fishing or any other purpose during periods of heavy rainfall.

People should not climb onto bridges over water bodies to watch the rising water, take selfies or photographs, or gather in groups. All non-essential travel should be avoided when rainfall intensifies.

Trips to waterfalls, water bodies and hilly areas should be completely avoided until weather warnings are withdrawn.

Extra caution should be exercised while travelling on roads close to water bodies and on roads undergoing repair work. The possibility of road accidents may increase during very heavy rainfall.

Motorists should not attempt to drive through areas where water bodies have overflowed onto roads. Trees, electric poles, signboards, walls and other structures in unsafe conditions on private or public property should be secured. Overgrown or hazardous trees should be trimmed, and dangerous situations should be reported to the authorities.