Heavy Rains in Kerala: Red Alert for Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, Kasaragod
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for four districts in Kerala as heavy rainfall continues to lash the state. The alert, in effect for Friday, August 7, 2026, covers Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod, where extremely heavy rainfall is expected.
An orange alert has been issued for Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, and Idukki districts, indicating very heavy rainfall during the next 24 hours. The remaining districts are on a yellow alert, with isolated heavy rainfall likely.
The IMD's weather bulletin attributes the sustained rain spell to upper cyclonic circulations persisting over the southeast Bay of Bengal, the northwest Bay of Bengal, and the adjoining north Odisha-Gangetic West Bengal coasts. These systems have been drawing moisture into the region, leading to intense precipitation.
According to rainfall records compiled by the IMD, Kumarakom in Kottayam district recorded 14 cm of rainfall in the 24 hours ending at 8:30 a.m. on Friday, the highest in the state. Vaikkom followed with 13 cm, while Kottayam and Cherthala in Alappuzha each recorded 9 cm.
A red alert signifies the highest level of warning, indicating that extremely heavy rainfall is likely to disrupt normal life. The public, especially those residing in low-lying areas and landslide-prone zones, have been advised to remain cautious and follow instructions from local authorities.
Orange alerts are issued when very heavy rainfall is expected, which could impact transportation, agriculture, and power supply. Yellow alerts denote the likelihood of heavy rainfall and encourage residents to stay updated on weather developments.
Kerala has a long history of monsoon-related challenges, including flooding and landslides, particularly in the Malabar region. The state's disaster management agencies are on standby, and relief teams have been deployed to vulnerable areas.
The IMD continues to monitor the situation and will issue further updates as the weather systems evolve. Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel, stay away from rivers and steep slopes, and cooperate with evacuation orders if issued.
This spell of rain is part of the broader southwest monsoon, which typically brings significant rainfall to the western coast of India during this time of year. However, the intensity of this week's rainfall has prompted heightened alerts.
As of Friday morning, no major incidents have been reported, but authorities remain vigilant. The public is encouraged to access official weather updates through the IMD's website and mobile application.
