Kerala Issues Flood Warnings as Active Monsoon Brings Heavy Rain Across State

Kerala remained on high alert on Monday after heavy rainfall lashed several parts of the state, triggering concerns over rising water levels and possible flooding, particularly in the southern district of Pathanamthitta. Authorities intensified disaster preparedness measures as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warned that the active southwest monsoon continued to bring significant rainfall across the region.

The Sabarimala region witnessed intense overnight rain, prompting fears of a worsening flood situation. The office of Kerala Tourism Minister P. C. Vishnunadh said increasing water levels could affect Ranni and surrounding areas, urging residents in low-lying locations to relocate to safer places without delay. The minister has been camping in Pathanamthitta to oversee disaster management and relief operations, while reviewing the situation at Kozhencherry with local legislators, officials and other public representatives.

As a precautionary measure, district administrations across Kerala declared a holiday for educational institutions in several districts on Monday due to the continuing downpour. The move comes amid heightened concerns over flooding, landslides and disruptions to normal life.

Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan also convened an online meeting of district collectors to assess the evolving weather conditions and review the state's flood preparedness and emergency response. According to IMD rainfall data recorded between 8:30 am on August 2 and 5:30 am on August 3, Venkurinji in Pathanamthitta received the highest rainfall at 104.5 mm, followed by Udumbannoor in Idukki with 103.0 mm and Cheruthoni in Idukki with 101.5 mm.

Several other locations also recorded heavy rainfall, including Laha (87 mm) in Pathanamthitta, Thycattussery (80 mm) in Alappuzha, Neriamangalam (75 mm) in Ernakulam, and Ulanadu (74.5 mm) in Pathanamthitta. Mattancherry, Ranni Chethackal, Vadavathoor, Palluruthy and Munakkal each received more than 60 mm of rain, which the IMD classifies as significant rainfall.

With the southwest monsoon remaining active, state authorities have stepped up monitoring of rivers, reservoirs and vulnerable areas, while emergency teams remain on standby to respond to any flooding or rain-related incidents. Residents have been advised to follow official warnings and avoid unnecessary travel in affected regions.