Nine Kerala Districts on Orange Alert as IMD Predicts Heavy Rains
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for nine districts in Kerala, warning of intense heavy rainfall over the next 24 hours. The alert, effective from July 8, 2026, covers Wayanad, Kasaragod, Kannur, Kozhikode, Malappuram, Palakkad, Thrissur, Ernakulam, and Idukki.
A yellow alert has also been issued for Kottayam, Alappuzha, and Pathanamthitta, indicating isolated heavy rainfall. The orange alert signifies that the weather is likely to cause disruptions, including waterlogging and landslides, especially in hilly regions like Wayanad and Idukki.
The IMD attributed the heavy downpour to an offshore trough along the west coast extending to central Kerala, which is expected to persist on July 9 as well. Residents in affected areas have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel unless necessary, and follow safety guidelines issued by local disaster management authorities.
Kerala, which receives heavy monsoon rains from June to September, has experienced significant flooding and landslides in past years. The state disaster response teams remain on standby to assist in case of emergencies.
