IMD issues red alert for three districts in Kerala: Extremely heavy rains predicted
Authorities have directed local bodies to prepare relief camps in districts under red and orange alerts.
Synopsis: The IMD has issued red, orange, and yellow alerts across Kerala till 29 June, warning of extremely heavy rainfall, landslides, and floods in several districts. The KSDMA urges residents in vulnerable areas to relocate and follow safety guidelines. Relief camps are being readied, and the public is advised to stay updated via IMD and SDMA channels.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Thursday, 26 June, issued multiple rainfall alerts for Kerala over the next five days, warning of extremely heavy rainfall in several districts.
A red alert has been declared for Idukki, Malappuram, and Wayanad districts on Thursday, forecasting rainfall exceeding 204.4 mm in 24 hours, which could potentially trigger flash floods, landslides, and urban flooding.
Meanwhile, orange alerts, indicating very heavy rainfall (115.6 mm to 204.4 mm), have been issued as follows:
26 June: Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Kozhikode, and Kannur
27 June: Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Malappuram, and Wayanad
28 June: Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, and Kannur
Yellow alerts, signalling a chance of heavy rainfall (64.5 mm to 115.5 mm), are in effect for several districts including Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha, Kasaragod, Palakkad, and others on different days up to 29 June.
Also Read: Wayanad District Collector urges media outlets to exercise caution while reporting on rains
KSDMA issues safety precautions
The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has urged residents in vulnerable areas鈥攅specially hilly and low-lying regions鈥攖o remain on high alert. People residing in landslide-prone zones and flood-prone lowlands are advised to relocate to safer places well in advance.
Authorities have directed local bodies to prepare relief camps in districts under red and orange alerts.
The public has been strongly advised to follow these safety precautions:
Avoid crossing rivers or streams during heavy rain
Postpone non-essential travel
Stay away from waterfalls, dams, and hilly terrains
Be cautious of fallen trees, electric lines, and landslip-prone slopes
Do not walk through waterlogged areas unless electrical safety is confirmed
Report powerline-related dangers to KSEB Helpline 1912
For emergencies, contact district helpline 1077 or state helpline 1070
An emergency kit with essential supplies is recommended for all households in at-risk areas. Safety guidelines and the Orange Book of Disaster Management 2024 can be accessed on the official SDMA website.
The IMD has stated that weather alerts are dynamic and subject to change. Citizens are urged to stay updated via IMD and SDMA official websites and social media channels.
(Edited by Sumavarsha, with inputs from Dileep V Kumar)