Kerala Braces for Heavy Rains: Riverbank Residents on Alert as Dams Release Water
Heavy rains accompanied by gusty winds lashed several parts of Kerala on Saturday, leading to a rise in water levels in many rivers and dams, inundation in low-lying areas, and damage to property. Authorities have issued alerts and precautionary measures across affected districts.
In Palakkad district, compound walls of two houses collapsed due to the heavy rainfall. Northern parts of Kozhikode, particularly the high ranges, experienced intense downpours.
In Idukki district, the shutters of the Pambla Dam were opened as a precaution after heavy rainfall in catchment areas raised the reservoir's water level, according to officials.
Residents living along both banks of the Periyar River have been advised to remain vigilant, and officials have been directed to take all necessary safety measures.
The State Disaster Management Authority warned that moderate to intense rainfall accompanied by gusty winds reaching speeds of up to 40 kmph is likely in Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Kozhikode, Kannur, and Kasaragod districts.
The authority cautioned that heavy rains could lead to waterlogging on major roads, poor visibility affecting traffic, flooding in low-lying areas and along riverbanks, uprooting of trees causing power disruptions, partial damage to houses and huts, and an increased risk of landslides and landslips. Rough weather may also adversely affect people and livestock, and damage unsecured structures along the coastline.
In response, the Thrissur district administration declared a holiday for all educational institutions, including professional colleges, on Saturday due to the heavy rainfall.
The State Disaster Management Authority urged people living in landslide-, landslip-, and flash flood-prone areas to move to safer places as directed by local authorities. Residents along riverbanks and downstream of dams were advised to remain alert and relocate to relief camps if instructed.
The advisory further asked residents of weak or poorly secured houses to exercise caution due to the possibility of strong winds uprooting trees and damaging electric poles. Officials appealed to the public to avoid unnecessary travel and strictly follow directions issued by district authorities.
Kerala is in the midst of the southwest monsoon, which typically brings heavy rainfall from June to September. The state has a history of devastating floods, particularly in 2018 and 2019, and authorities remain vigilant to minimize risks.
