Flooding continued to disrupt life across Kerala on Sunday despite a decline in rainfall, with the death toll from rain-related incidents rising to eight and eight others reported missing. Authorities have shifted more than 5,700 people to relief camps as rescue and relief operations continue across the state.
According to the Chief Minister’s Office, 5,792 people have been evacuated to 209 relief camps from flood- and landslide-prone areas. The heavy rains have also caused extensive damage, destroying 27 houses completely while another 196 suffered partial damage. Thirteen people have been reported injured.
Although rainfall eased during the day, floodwaters remained in several towns, including Aranmula and Ranni, where National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel, local authorities, volunteers and residents worked together to clear debris and unclog drainage systems.
Chief Minister VD Satheesan said the government is closely monitoring the situation in coordination with district authorities and has assured financial assistance and relief for affected families. He also appealed to volunteers and social organisations to assist in cleanup operations while urging people, especially those living in hilly regions, to remain alert.
Educational institutions in Kannur and Pathanamthitta districts, along with the Chengannur and Kuttanad taluks, have been closed as a precautionary measure.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for 12 districts and a yellow alert for Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam, forecasting more heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds over the coming days. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea for the next 24 hours.
Tourism-related activities near rivers, waterfalls and lakes have been suspended in districts under orange alert, while district control rooms have been established to assist stranded tourists. Authorities also remain on high alert as water levels in several major dams across Idukki, Pathanamthitta and Thrissur districts continue to stay above warning levels.
Meanwhile, the opposition CPI(M) criticised the state government, urging stronger coordination and faster disaster response measures to safeguard lives and property as rescue efforts continue.
