Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala – On Monday, heavy rains continued to batter Kerala, prompting the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue an orange alert in four districts of the state. The districts of Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, and Idukki were put on high alert for the day, while eight other districts received a yellow alert.
An orange alert indicates the likelihood of very heavy rainfall ranging from 11 cm to 20 cm, while a yellow alert suggests heavy rainfall between 6 and 11 cm. The IMD also predicted the possibility of thunderstorms with moderate rainfall and gusty winds in certain areas, including Thiruvananthapuram, Idukki, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod.
The meteorological department also reported the presence of cyclonic circulations over coastal Tamil Nadu, the Lakshadweep area, and the Southeast Arabian Sea, which is adjacent to the Kerala coast. As a result, Kerala is expected to experience light to moderate rainfall, isolated heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, gusty winds, and lightning until Tuesday.
In response to the heavy rains and potential flooding, State Health Minister Veena George has urged extreme caution to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. The receding floodwaters in previously affected areas could lead to the proliferation of diseases like leptospirosis, which is caused by contact with contaminated water or soil. Minister George has advised against self-medication and emphasized the importance of heightened surveillance, awareness activities, and access to medicines.
During a brief respite in the morning, water levels receded in many flooded areas. However, certain areas, including the Kochuveli pit line in Thiruvananthapuram, remained inundated, causing delays and rescheduling of train services. The Thiruvananthapuram Central-New Delhi Kerala Express, scheduled to depart at 12:30 pm, was rescheduled to 7:35 pm due to the ongoing flooding at the Kochuveli pit line.
As Kerala grapples with persistent rainfall and its consequent challenges, residents are urged to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and well-being.
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