Very heavy rains continue, three districts on red alert; holiday for educational institutions in nine districts

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Very heavy rains are continuing to lash the state. Idukki, Kannur and Kasaragod are on red alert. Orange alert has been issued in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode and Wayanad.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has informed that moderate/heavy rain and strong winds with a speed of up to 60 kmph are likely in Thrissur, Ernakulam and Alappuzha in the next three hours.

Meantime, five more deaths have been reported in the monsoon ravages. Three are missing. There have been extensive damages across the state. There is waterlogging in many places.

Holiday for educational institutions
A holiday has been declared for educational institutions in nine districts due to heavy rain. The holiday is in Kasaragod, Kannur, Wayanad, Palakkad, Thrissur, Ernakulam, Idukki, Kottayam and Pathanamthitta.

In addition, all educational institutions including professional colleges in Kuttanad taluk will be a holiday today. There is no change in examinations.

Expected impacts
Traffic congestion may occur due to waterlogging on main roads/blurred vision in vehicles.

Waterlogging/flooding is possible in low-lying areas and river banks.

Falling of trees may lead to power disruption/accident.
Partial damage to houses and huts possible.
Landslides and mudslides are possible.

Rain is likely to adversely affect humans and livestock and damage unprotected structures in the coastal area.

Directions
Manage traffic effectively. Avoid non-essential travel and stay in safe areas.