Heavy rain causes widespread damage in Kerala; Seven people killed in rain-related incidents

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Heavy rainfall continues to cause widespread damage across Kerala, with seven people losing their lives in separate rain-related incidents, including road accidents, drowning, electrocution, and falling trees.

In Malappuram, three people, including a married couple, were killed after an Innova car lost control and crashed into a parked lorry. The accident took place on National Highway 66 near Calicut University at around 12 am on Friday. The deceased have been identified as Shafid (40), his wife Shaheena (46), and Jahana Sherin (26), a relative of Shaheena. In another incident, Shahin (35), a native of Edavanna in Malappuram, drowned after being swept away by strong currents while fishing in the Chaliyar River.

In Thrissur, a man died after a tree uprooted and fell on the Kodungallur S.N. Puram - P. Vemballur road. The deceased has been identified as Manikandan Shanthi (60) of Vellangallur. In Kunnamkulam, Thrissur, Nishad (44) died of electrocution while cleaning an iron roof at the Porkkalengad Temple in Anaikkal.

In Kozhikode, an ambulance carrying 82-year-old Janaki overturned near Kottamparamba, Peringalam. Janaki, who was being taken to a private hospital after experiencing breathing difficulties, died in the accident.

The continuing rain has caused severe disruption in several parts of the state, prompting authorities to issue fresh weather alerts.

Red alert in five districts

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod districts today, warning of extremely heavy rainfall. A red alert has also been issued for Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Wayanad districts for tomorrow. An orange alert is in place today for Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, and Palakkad districts, while Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and Alappuzha are under yellow alert.

In view of the severe weather conditions, authorities have declared a holiday for educational institutions in Kannur, Kozhikode, Wayanad, and Kasargod districts today.