IMD Issues Red Alert for Seven Districts Amid Forecast of Extremely Heavy Rain

Thiruvananthapuram: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of extremely heavy rainfall across parts of Keralam and issued a Red Alert for Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Kannur and Kasaragod districts.

An Orange Alert remains in force for Pathanamthitta, Idukki, Malappuram, Kozhikode and Wayanad districts as heavy rainfall is expected to continue.

In view of the forecast of intense rain and strong winds of up to 50 kmph, district authorities have declared a holiday for educational institutions in Thrissur, Ernakulam, Kannur, Kasaragod, Kottayam, Pathanamthitta, Wayanad and Alappuzha on Friday. Schools functioning as relief camps in Idukki and Thrissur have also been granted a holiday. However, examinations and interviews scheduled in advance will be held as planned.

Meanwhile, authorities have issued Red Alerts for the Kallarkutty, Lower Periyar and Peringalkuthu dams due to increased inflow and strong water discharge. A Blue Alert, the first stage of the warning system, remains in effect at the Kuttiyadi Dam.