15 Dead, 7 Missing as Heavy Rains Batter Kerala, Hundreds of Relief Camps Open

Kerala continues to battle the impact of relentless monsoon rains, with the death toll rising to 15 and seven people still missing, as authorities intensified rescue and relief operations across the state on Monday.

After reviewing the flood situation with senior officials, Chief Minister V D Satheesan said the state administration is working round the clock to assist affected residents. Rescue teams remain on alert in vulnerable areas as heavy rainfall continues to lash several districts.

According to the latest official figures, 316 relief camps have been set up across Kerala, providing shelter to 11,018 people who have been forced to leave their homes due to flooding, waterlogging and landslides.

Among the worst-hit districts is Kottayam, where three people lost their lives. The fatalities include two people from the Poonjar Assembly constituency and a child who tragically drowned after falling into a water tank.

Ernakulam reported two deaths, while one fatality each was recorded in Idukki and Muvattupuzha. Kollam reported two deaths, Malappuram accounted for four fatalities, and one person each died in Kannur and Kozhikode, taking the statewide toll to 15.

Search operations are continuing for the seven people who remain unaccounted for. Officials said two people are missing in Kollam, two in Kannur, one in Malappuram, and one each in Idukki and Muvattupuzha.

Disaster response teams, local authorities and volunteers are working together to evacuate residents from low-lying areas and provide essential supplies to those staying in relief camps. The government has urged people living in vulnerable regions to remain alert, follow official advisories and avoid travelling through flooded or landslide-prone areas unless absolutely necessary.

With the southwest monsoon showing no signs of easing, authorities are closely monitoring rivers, reservoirs and weather conditions while preparing for any further emergencies that may arise in the coming days.