North Kerala Braces for Floods as Heavy Rains Prompt Red Alert, Shutting Down Schools and Colleges in Six Districts

Heavy Rains Trigger Red Alert in North Kerala; Schools, Colleges Closed in Six Districts

Kochi, August 8, 2023: Kerala is facing intense monsoon rains, leading the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue a red alert for Malappuram, Kannur, and Kasaragod districts. The IMD has forecasted extremely heavy rainfall exceeding 20 cm in these districts on Monday.

An orange alert, indicating heavy to very heavy rainfall, has been issued for Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Kozhikode, and Wayanad districts.

In response to the severe weather conditions, the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has directed educational institutions in all six affected districts to remain closed on Monday. All tourism activities in Kasaragod have also been suspended.

The incessant rainfall has already caused significant damage across the state. Several minor landslides have been reported in Wayanad and Malappuram districts, blocking roads and disrupting traffic. Uprooted trees and waterlogging have also been reported in several areas.

The IMD has warned of waterlogging and flooding in low-lying areas, particularly in urban centers. Residents in affected districts have been advised to stay indoors and avoid venturing out unless absolutely necessary.

The Kerala Water Authority (KWA) has also issued a warning, urging people to conserve water as the heavy rainfall has disrupted water supply in some areas.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has directed district collectors to remain vigilant and take all necessary measures to ensure the safety of the public. The state government has also deployed additional personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) to assist in relief and rescue operations.

The IMD has predicted that the heavy rainfall is likely to continue over the next few days, with a slight decrease in intensity from Tuesday onwards. Residents are advised to stay updated with weather forecasts and follow the instructions of local authorities.

The KSDMA has issued a set of safety guidelines for the public during heavy rainfall:

* Avoid driving through waterlogged areas.

* Do not attempt to cross flooded rivers or streams.

* Stay away from fallen power lines and electrical equipment.

* If caught in a landslide, run parallel to the direction of the slide.

* Keep important documents and valuables safe in waterproof containers.

* Follow official weather updates and advisories.

Short Description

🚨☔️ Kerala's monsoon rains intensify! IMD issues red alert for Malappuram, Kannur, Kasaragod; orange alert for Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Kozhikode, Wayanad. Schools closed, tourism suspended in affected areas due to heavy rainfall causing landslides and tree uprooting. Stay safe! 🙏 #KeralaRains #IMDAlerts
#KeralaMonsoonRains2023