In a stark warning to the people of Kerala, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has declared a red alert in eight districts due to a surge in monsoon activity across the state. The alert signifies a forecast of extremely heavy rainfall, likely to cause widespread disruptions and endanger lives.
The districts named in the red alert — Idukki, Ernakulam, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Wayanad, Kozhikode, Kannur, and Kasaragod — are witnessing relentless rains, raising concerns of flash floods, landslides, and damage to infrastructure.
This weather emergency is being driven by a cyclonic circulation in the upper atmosphere, which is enhancing moisture flow into Kerala from both the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal. The result is consistent downpours that have already exceeded seasonal averages in some regions.
The situation is particularly dire in the high ranges of Idukki, where multiple minor landslides have been reported. Rescue and response teams are actively working in remote panchayats, helping relocate families and ensuring medical assistance reaches isolated areas.
Urban centers like Kochi (Ernakulam district) and Kozhikode are facing massive waterlogging. Traffic has come to a standstill in many areas, and essential services like ambulance access and food delivery have been severely hampered. Authorities are asking citizens to stay indoors unless travel is absolutely essential.
Power outages have hit multiple areas in Kottayam and Wayanad due to the combination of flooding and fallen electric poles. The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) is working on restoring supply and has issued advisories warning people not to touch electrical appliances if their homes are flooded.
As a precaution, district collectors have shut down all educational institutions, suspended public transport in affected zones, and activated emergency helplines. Relief camps are seeing increased intake as more people flee their homes in anticipation of worsening conditions.
The IMD’s regional forecast suggests that Kerala will continue to see intense rainfall over the coming days. Orange and yellow alerts remain in place for several nearby districts, indicating that the weather pattern could extend further.
Public cooperation is crucial, say officials. The state government has launched an awareness campaign on social media to share real-time updates and safety instructions. Citizens are encouraged to avoid river banks, hill slopes, and coastal roads, which remain the most dangerous during heavy monsoon spells.
As Kerala stands on high alert, it is once again a reminder of the power of nature — and the importance of preparedness and community solidarity in facing its challenges.
