Kerala Braces for More Rains: Red Alert in Three Districts

Kerala faces intense monsoon rains, with red alerts in three districts and three deaths reported. The IMD warns of floods, landslides, and rough seas through early June.

Severe Monsoon Impact in Kerala: Red Alert Issued in Kannur, Wayanad, and Kozhikode

Following the early arrival of the southwest monsoon on May 24—Kerala’s earliest onset since 2009—the state is experiencing widespread and intense rainfall. On May 27, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued red alerts for Kannur, Wayanad, and Kozhikode districts, forecasting extremely heavy rain exceeding 20 cm in 24 hours.

An orange alert was issued in Thrissur, Malappuram, and Kasaragod, while districts like Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and Ernakulam remain under yellow alert for moderate rainfall.

Tragically, three rain-related deaths have been reported—two in Alappuzha and one in Kollam. Kozhikode’s Urumi recorded the highest rainfall at 210 mm, with several areas in Wayanad also crossing 200 mm. In response, authorities have opened shutters of the Malankara Dam in Idukki, cautioning residents near the Muvattupuzha and Thodupuzha rivers. Poonoorpuzha river in Kozhikode has also crossed danger levels.

The IMD warns of landslides in hilly areas, particularly in red and orange alert zones. Relief camps have been set up in districts like Kozhikode and Wayanad, with evacuations underway. District authorities in Malappuram, Wayanad, Kottayam, and Kozhikode declared holidays for all schools and colleges, excluding residential ones.

Thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds of 50–60 kmph are expected across Kerala and Lakshadweep. Fishermen are strongly advised against venturing into the sea until May 30 due to rough conditions and high waves up to 4 meters.

The monsoon’s intensity is likely to persist, with isolated heavy rainfall forecast for May 31 and June 1. A developing low-pressure area near the Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify rainfall over the region.