The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert – for extremely heavy rainfall – in five districts of Kerala: Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod for Monday, June 16.

Extremely heavy rainfall of more than 20 cm in 24 hours is expected in these northern districts of the state, which could lead to widespread flooding, disruption of essential services, landslides/mudslides in hilly regions, and potential need for evacuations.

In response to this severe weather, district collectors in 11 districts of Kerala have declared a holiday for all educational institutions, including schools, professional colleges, anganwadis, and madrasas on Monday.

Additionally, orange alerts have been issued for several other districts, including Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur and Palakkad.

Fishermen have been warned not to venture into the sea until at least Wednesday, June 18, due to the possibility of high waves.

There have been reports of widespread damage, including uprooted trees, mudslides, waterlogging, and four fatalities in various parts of the state due to the intensifying monsoon.

The heavy rainfall is attributed to a combination of a cyclonic circulation over the Northwest Bay of Bengal and strong Westerly winds over Kerala and the Lakshadweep area. Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary travel, and follow safety guidelines.

Last Thursday, the IMD warned that heavy rain was likely to continue in the coming days, especially in parts of northern Kerala. The state has already been experiencing heavy downpours since earlier last week, and the weather department says the situation is likely to worsen.

With inputs from agencies