Heavy rainfall persisted in the high-range areas of multiple districts in Kerala on Sunday, leading to flooding in many low-lying regions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for six districts – Ernakulam, Idukki, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur, and Kasaragod, while a yellow alert has been issued for the remaining eight districts.
Additionally, an orange alert has been declared for Lakshadweep by the IMD. An orange alert signifies “very heavy rainfall” ranging from 11 to 20 cm within 24 hours, whereas a yellow alert indicates “heavy rain” between 6 and 11 cm.
Idukki district was severely affected, experiencing flooding and mudslides in various areas on Saturday night and Sunday morning. Reports of flooding in Nedumkandam, Kumily, and Kattappana areas emerged, with water entering numerous houses and shops. Authorities relocated residents to relief camps in response.
The continuous downpour resulted in a further increase in the water level at the Mullaperiyar dam. The Tamil Nadu Water Resources Department, responsible for managing the dam, opened 13 spillway shutters by 100 cm. District officials reported that 1,400 cusecs of water are being discharged from the dam, which recorded a water level of 139.30 feet at 5 am. Three other dams in the district are also releasing water, as per authorities.
In Ernakulam, heavy overnight rainfall led to flooding near Ernakulam Junction railway station, where renovation work is ongoing. The district administration remains vigilant due to rising water levels in various rivers, officials confirmed. High rainfall was also observed in Pathanamthitta, Kozhikode, Malappuram, and Kannur districts.
In Malappuram, floodwaters entered agricultural lands in the highlands, resulting in crop damage. Fishermen have been cautioned against venturing into the sea due to rough weather conditions expected to persist until October 22.