Rain intensifies in Kerala, CM directs Idukki, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam collectors to be ready for emergency situation
Heavy monsoon rains have caused widespread flooding, landslides, and infrastructure damage across Kerala, India, leading to multiple fatalities. Authorities have issued red alerts for nine districts and are conducting emergency evacuations.
Why it matters
The extreme weather events in Kerala highlight the increasing vulnerability of the region to climate-induced disasters and the necessity for robust emergency management.
Heavy rain continued to lash Kerala on Saturday, with the central and northern districts bearing the brunt of the downpour. Landslides, flash floods, overflowing rivers and widespread waterlogging disrupted normal life across the state, while multiple rain-related incidents claimed several lives. Nine districts - Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Thrissur, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod - remained under a red alert, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting extremely heavy rainfall of over 20 cm in isolated places within 24 hours. Among the worst-hit areas was Ranni town in Pathanamthitta, which was inundated after floodwaters rose early on Saturday. Fire and Rescue Services personnel, police, and local residents worked to evacuate stranded families and shift vehicles and goods from flooded shops. Idukki and Kottayam witnessed widespread flooding and multiple landslides as rivers and streams overflowed.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in