The incessant deluge of heavy rains in Kerala has sparked a flood-like situation, causing disruptions across the state. Torrential downpours have led to landslides in hilly regions of Idukki and Pathanamthitta districts, while low-lying areas grapple with severe waterlogging, impacting daily life.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for Pathanamthitta, signaling the likelihood of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall exceeding 20 cm in 24 hours. In response, authorities have heightened vigilance, especially in high ranges and low-lying areas. The capital city, Thiruvananthapuram, faced the brunt of the heavy downpour, registering a staggering 15 centimetres of rainfall, while areas like Kunnathanam also witnessed substantial rainfall, resulting in waterlogging and disruptions to traffic flow.
The IMD’s alarming forecast has prompted authorities to take preventive measures, including raising the shutters of Kallarkutty and Pambla dams in Idukki district to manage rising water levels in their catchment areas. Reports indicate extensive damage to agriculture and property in Thiruvalla and Konni areas.
Meanwhile, in Tamil Nadu, heavy rainfall has led to school closures in multiple districts. Eight districts, including Tenkasi, Virudhunagar, Pudhukottai, Nilgiri, Theni, Thirunelveli, Kanyakumari, and Thoothukudi, declared holidays for government and private schools due to the inclement weather.
The Chennai meteorological department’s forecast predicts heavy to very heavy rain in several districts, warning of thunderstorms with moderate rain in specific areas. The forecast covers regions spanning from Nilgiris, Coimbatore, Dindigul, Sivagangai, and Pudukottai, among others, urging caution and preparedness in these areas.
The relentless downpour in Kerala and the rainfall’s cascading effects in Tamil Nadu underscore the critical need for caution, as authorities brace for continued adverse weather conditions that have disrupted normal life and raised concerns over safety and infrastructure.
Sources By Agencies
