Thiruvananthapuram, August 4: Kerala is grappling with one of the most intense spells of the southwest monsoon this season after three consecutive days of torrential rainfall triggered widespread flooding, landslides, and disruptions across several districts. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the state recorded nearly three times the normal rainfall between August 1 and August 3, with districts such as Pathanamthitta, Kannur, Kozhikode, Wayanad, and Idukki among the worst affected.
The relentless rain caused rivers to overflow, inundating low-lying areas and forcing thousands of residents to seek safety in relief camps. Authorities have deployed teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Fire and Rescue Services, police, and local volunteers to conduct evacuation and rescue operations in flood-hit regions. Boats have been pressed into service to reach marooned families, while emergency shelters continue to accommodate displaced residents.
Several landslides were reported in the hilly districts of Wayanad, Idukki, and Kannur, damaging roads, homes, and public infrastructure. As a precaution, authorities temporarily closed vulnerable roads and advised residents in landslide-prone areas to relocate to safer locations. Rising water levels in major reservoirs also prompted the controlled release of water from selected dams under close monitoring.
The IMD has continued Orange Alerts for several districts and warned that heavy to very heavy rainfall may persist over the coming days. Disaster management officials have urged people living near rivers, reservoirs, and unstable hill slopes to remain vigilant and follow evacuation orders whenever issued. Fishermen have also been advised not to venture into the sea because of rough weather and strong winds.
Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan chaired a high-level review meeting to assess the flood situation and directed all district administrations to ensure uninterrupted rescue, relief, and rehabilitation efforts. Essential supplies, including food, drinking water, medicines, and temporary shelter materials, are being distributed to affected communities. Health officials have also launched preventive measures to reduce the risk of water-borne diseases in flooded areas.
While rainfall intensity is expected to fluctuate over the next few days, authorities have emphasized that public safety remains the top priority. Citizens have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel, stay updated through official weather bulletins, and cooperate with emergency services until conditions improve.
