Red Alert in Kerala: IMD Predicts Heavy Downpour

The India Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for Wayanad and northern Kerala districts, warning of extremely heavy rainfall. An orange alert covers other parts, impacting education and transport. Authorities declared holidays for educational institutions and train services faced disruptions. Wayanad landslides have claimed 123 lives.

The India Meteorological Department on Tuesday issued a red alert for Wayanad and northern Kerala districts, warning of extremely heavy rainfall expected to lash the region. This comes as a precautionary measure after landslides, triggered by incessant rains, devastated parts of the area.

In addition to the red alert which includes Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod districts, the IMD has issued an orange alert for Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, and Ernakulam for Tuesday. Orange alerts indicate very heavy rain of 11-20 cm in 24 hours, while a yellow alert means heavy rainfall between 6-11 cm.

As a result of the red alert, authorities in numerous districts declared holidays for all educational institutions including professional colleges. Train services have also been disrupted due to flooding and uprooted trees, impacting at least 10 trains with some being partially or fully rescheduled.

(With inputs from agencies.)