Kerala Faces Monsoon Emergency: IMD Raises Red Alert for Eight Districts Amid Rising Rainfall
Kerala is in the grip of a monsoon emergency as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has raised a red alert for eight districts following relentless rainfall and deteriorating weather conditions. The alert has been issued for Idukki, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod.
A red alert from the IMD indicates the possibility of extremely heavy rainfall exceeding 204.5 mm in 24 hours. This level of rainfall poses a significant threat to life and property, especially in landslide-prone and low-lying areas. The current weather pattern has been attributed to a cyclonic circulation over the central parts of India, which is intensifying monsoonal wind flows into Kerala.
In high-altitude districts like Idukki and Wayanad, multiple landslides have been reported, cutting off access to remote villages and damaging roads. Authorities have already evacuated residents from known landslide zones, and geologists are being deployed to assess slope stability in risky areas.
In Ernakulam and Kozhikode, urban flooding has emerged as a major challenge. Key city roads are submerged, and public transport has been suspended in several routes. Emergency teams are using boats to reach stranded residents, and pumps are being deployed to manage the stormwater overflow.
The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has intensified coordination efforts with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Fire and Rescue Services, and local authorities. Relief camps are being established in all eight districts, and supplies are being stockpiled in anticipation of further worsening conditions.
Schools, colleges, and anganwadis in the red alert districts have been closed as a precaution. Examinations have been postponed, and government offices in vulnerable zones are operating with minimal staff.
In coastal regions, authorities have issued warnings to fishermen to remain ashore. The sea is expected to be rough with high waves and strong gusty winds, making fishing activities extremely dangerous.
With more rain forecasted for the coming 48–72 hours, the government is urging citizens to remain indoors, avoid travel, and report any emergencies through local control rooms. The IMD has also issued orange and yellow alerts for other districts in Kerala, indicating widespread rainfall across the state.
The Chief Minister has appealed to the public to stay calm but vigilant, while the disaster management agencies continue to work on the ground to prevent loss of life and minimize damage.
