IMD warns of continued heavy rains in Kerala
text_fieldsThiruvananthapuram: As monsoon rains persist in Kerala, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of heavy rainfall in some areas over the next few days due to a severe low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal.
An orange alert has been issued for four districts—Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, and Idukki—indicating very heavy rainfall between 11 cm and 20 cm within 24 hours.
The IMD also cautioned that thunderstorms with moderate rainfall and gusty winds, reaching speeds of 40-60 km/h, are likely in certain parts of the state.
The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has warned that heavy rains are causing rising water levels in several rivers, including Manimala and Achankovil in Pathanamthitta, Meenachil in Kottayam, Korapuzha in Kozhikode, and Kabani in Wayanad. Residents along these riverbanks have been advised to remain vigilant.
The ongoing monsoon, which arrived in Kerala on May 24—eight days ahead of schedule—continues to bring strong winds and heavy rainfall, leading to widespread damage. Uprooted trees have damaged homes, dislodged electricity poles have caused power disruptions, and flooding has affected low-lying areas.
In response to the worsening conditions, authorities have relocated hundreds of people to relief camps, particularly in Wayanad district.
Reports indicate that heavy winds have also destroyed crops in several parts of the state.
(inputs from PTI)