Kerala Monsoon Chaos: 2 Dead, Orange Alert Issued Amid Heavy Rains
At least two people have died as intense monsoon rains wreaked havoc across Kerala, triggering landslides and severe waterlogging. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Idukki, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, and Kannur, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall (6–20 cm) in the next 48 hours.
Fatalities and Emergency Response
Officials confirmed:
– A 45-year-old man died in a landslide in Idukki.
– Another fatality occurred due to a tree collapse in Malappuram.
NDRF teams have been deployed for rescue and relief operations in high-risk zones. “We are monitoring landslide-prone areas and have set up relief camps,” said a Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) official.
IMD’s Orange Alert: What It Means
The orange alert signals potential flooding, landslides, and disruption in:
– Idukki & Wayanad (high landslide risk)
– Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur (flood-prone areas)
An IMD spokesperson attributed the heavy downpour to a cyclonic circulation over the Arabian Sea, warning of isolated extreme rainfall.
Floods, Power Cuts, and Infrastructure Damage
- Rivers Bharathapuzha and Periyar nearing danger levels.
- Roads submerged, traffic disrupted in Kozhikode & Malappuram.
- Power outages reported due to snapped lines; KSEB teams working on restoration.
Government Measures and Public Advisory
- CM Pinarayi Vijayan urged residents in low-lying areas to evacuate if advised.
- Relief camps activated; emergency helpline (1077) operational.
Safety Tips for Residents
✔ Avoid hills, rivers, and waterlogged roads.
✔ Follow IMD/KSDMA alerts for real-time updates.
✔ Keep emergency kits ready.
Monsoon Impact Beyond Kerala
Kerala joins Assam, Maharashtra, Uttarakhand in facing extreme monsoon rains. Experts link intensified rainfall to climate change.
Conclusion
Kerala remains on high alert as heavy rains continue. Authorities aim to minimize damage, but risks persist. Stay tuned for live updates.
