Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 17: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for five districts in Kerala, warning of isolated very heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms on Saturday. A yellow alert has also been issued for the remaining nine districts, advising residents to remain cautious.
The orange alert covers Thiruvananthapuram, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad and Kannur districts, according to the latest IMD update.
Yellow Alert in Nine Kerala Districts
The IMD has issued a yellow alert for Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad and Kasaragod districts. These areas are likely to experience isolated heavy rainfall.
According to the IMD, very heavy rainfall refers to precipitation ranging from 115.6 mm to 204.4 mm within 24 hours. Heavy rainfall is defined as precipitation between 64.5 mm and 115.5 mm during the same period.
Kerala Issues Safety Advisory Amid Heavy Rain Warning
Following the heavy rainfall forecast, the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has urged residents in landslide-prone areas and locations vulnerable to flash floods to move to safer places if instructed by authorities.
People living near riverbanks and in areas downstream of dams have also been advised to remain alert and relocate when directed by officials.
The authority has asked residents in vulnerable locations to identify nearby relief camps and move to safer places during daylight hours in coordination with local self-government and revenue officials.
Tourists Advised to Avoid Waterfalls and Hilly Areas
The KSDMA has advised people against crossing rivers, entering water bodies for bathing or fishing, and undertaking unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall.
Tourists have been asked to avoid visiting waterfalls, water bodies and hilly areas until the weather alerts are withdrawn. Commuters should exercise caution on roads near water bodies and avoid driving through flooded stretches.
The authority has also warned of possible accidents caused by trees, electric poles, signboards and walls collapsing due to strong winds.
Kerala Rain Emergency Helpline Numbers
District- and taluk-level control rooms are operating round the clock to respond to emergencies.
People requiring assistance can contact the following toll-free helpline numbers:
- 1077 – District disaster management helpline
- 1070 – State disaster management helpline
The KSDMA said weather alerts may be revised depending on changes in the IMD forecast. Residents are advised to follow official weather updates and instructions from local authorities.
