Heavy rainfall in Kerala has triggered landslides, mudslides and flash floods, leaving at least five people dead and two others missing. Several districts have been affected as authorities prepare for more rain in the coming days.
One of the worst incidents occurred in Malappuram district, where five people were swept away by a sudden rise in water levels in the Kottapuzha River. Two people were rescued, while others died or remained missing as rescue teams continued their search.
In Kottayam district, a woman from Tamil Nadu died after a landslide near Teekoy. Her friend, who was also travelling with her, was injured in the incident and taken to hospital for treatment.
Two more people were killed in Idukki after a mudslide hit a shed where they had taken shelter from the rain. The incidents across Malappuram, Kottayam and Idukki have raised concerns about further landslides and flooding as rainfall continues.
The India Meteorological Department has forecast more heavy rain in parts of Kerala over the next few days. Orange alerts were issued for Kottayam and Idukki, warning of very heavy rainfall of around 11 cm to 20 cm.
Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan has directed officials to assess the situation every hour. District collectors have been asked to closely monitor vulnerable areas and take immediate steps, including evacuations, if required.
SMS alerts have also been sent to residents in Idukki and Kottayam. A special Disaster Management Force team has been sent to the Nilambur-Amarambalam area in Malappuram to support rescue operations.
Officials are continuing to monitor rivers, hilly areas and locations vulnerable to landslides. Residents in affected areas have been advised to remain alert and follow instructions from local authorities.
With more rain expected, rescue and disaster management teams remain on standby. Authorities are also preparing for possible evacuations if water levels rise or conditions become unsafe.