Kerala is on high alert as heavy rains are expected to hit the state on Sunday,August 2, 2026. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for 12 districts,warning of potential flash floods,mudslides, and significant road and neighborhood inundation.
The districts under alert include Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam,Ernakulam,Idukki,Thrissur,Palakkad, Malappuram,Kozhikode,Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasargod. IMD has not issued any warnings for Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam, but it has advised fishers to refrain from venturing into the rough seas .
Recent storms have already caused considerable damage across state. On Saturday,August 1, heavy rainfall led to six fatalities and left another six individuals missing. Landslides were reported in forested areas of Idukki and Kottayam, while overflowing rivers submerged commercial areas, damaging goods that local traders had prepared for the upcoming Onam shopping season .
In Kottayam, one of the hardest-hit districts, floodwaters swept away parked vehicles and caused power outages due to uprooted pylons, disrupting mobile phone and internet services . The government has opened 65 relief camps, relocating 1,465 individuals to safer locations.
Emergency response efforts are underway,with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Kerala State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) units positioned in the most vulnerable districts. government has mobilized seagoing fishers and boats to assist in search-and-rescue operations.
Authorities are taking proactive measures to mitigate the impact of the anticipated rains. The Revenue Department has been tasked with assessing damage to crops and buildings to facilitate compensation disbursement. Additionally,the government plans to announce ex gratia payments to families who have lost breadwinners due to the floods.
As the situation develops,officials have cautioned the public against traveling at night,especially in ghat sections,due to the risk of landslips. The heavy rains have already raised water levels in the Mullaperiyar dam,prompting further concern.
With the monsoon season already wreaking havoc,the state remains vigilant. The government is urging residents to stay informed and prepared as they brace for the possibility of further adverse weather conditions.
