Flash floods, landslides likely due to extreme heavy rain in Kerala, warning issued

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan advised people to be cautious in the wake of the Indian Meteorological Department's warning that heavy rains will continue in Kerala for the next five days. There is a possibility of flash floods, waterlogging in urban areas and low-lying areas. Continued rainfall may also trigger landslides. In a Facebook post, the Chief Minister said that those in the hilly areas, which are receiving heavy rains, should move to safer places.

"A red alert has been issued in Pathanamthitta, Kottayam and Idukki districts tomorrow due to the possibility of heavy rainfall. Orange alert has been announced in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha and Ernakulam districts and yellow alert in all other districts.

Those living in low-lying areas that are prone to waterlogging should assess the situation and shift to camps. Due to the possibility of strong winds, people living in inadequate shelters and those living in houses with weak roofs should be especially careful. Those who foresee danger should contact the authorities and evacuate to safe places as a safety precaution. Trees/posts/boards, walls etc. in danger in private and public areas should be secured," the CM said.

"People living in danger zones should be cautious as there is a possibility of rough seas along various coasts. They should also be prepared to move. Fishing equipment should be kept safe. In the event of heavy rains, under no circumstances should one cross rivers, enter rivers or other bodies of water for bathing, fishing or other purposes," he wrote in his Facebook post.

"Avoid non-essential travel as much as possible during heavy rains. Recreational trips to waterfalls, water bodies and hilly areas should be avoided until the rain warning is lifted. Be especially careful when traveling on roads adjacent to bodies of water. Also be careful on roads under repair. In the event of heavy rains, the possibility of increasing road accidents should be kept in mind. Viewing, taking selfies or standing in groups on the overpasses above water bodies is not allowed. Avoid night travel to hilly areas completely. As there is a possibility of accidents due to broken water lines, it should be ensured that there is no risk of electric shock before getting into the puddles in the alleys and footpaths. Those who go to work early in the morning, children who go to classes etc. should pay special attention to this," he added.