Heavy rains accompanied by strong winds battered several parts of Kerala on Saturday, leading to a surge in water levels in many rivers and dams, flooding in low-lying areas, and damage to property. Authorities have issued alerts and precautionary measures in response to the severe weather conditions. In Palakkad district, the heavy rainfall caused the collapse of compound walls of two houses, while the northern parts of Kozhikode, particularly the high ranges, experienced intense downpours.
In Idukki district, authorities opened the shutters of the Pambla Dam as a precautionary measure after heavy rainfall in the catchment areas led to a rise in the reservoir’s water level. Residents living along both banks of the Periyar River have been advised to remain vigilant, while officials have been directed to take all necessary safety measures. The disaster management authority has warned of moderate to intense rainfall accompanied by gusty winds reaching speeds of up to 40 kmph in several districts, including Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Kozhikode, Kannur, and Kasaragod.
The heavy rains could lead to waterlogging on major roads, poor visibility affecting traffic, flooding in low-lying areas and riverbanks, uprooting of trees causing disruptions to the power sector, partial damage to houses and huts, and an increased risk of landslides and landslips. Authorities have also cautioned that rough weather could adversely affect people and livestock and damage unsecured structures along the coastline. The Thrissur district administration has declared a holiday for all educational institutions, including professional colleges, in view of the heavy rainfall.
The State Disaster Management Authority has urged people living in landslide-, landslip-, and flash flood-prone areas to shift to safer places as directed by local authorities. Those residing along riverbanks and downstream of dams have been advised to remain alert and move to relief camps if instructed by the authorities. The advisory has also urged residents of weak or poorly secured houses to exercise caution due to the possibility of strong winds uprooting trees and damaging electric poles.
Officials have appealed to the public to avoid unnecessary travel and strictly follow directions issued by district authorities.
