Kerala is preparing for heavy rainfall and flooding expected on Sunday, August 2, 2026, marking a continuation of a series of stormy days that have devastated various regions of the state.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has raised an orange alert for 12 districts. It has issued warnings about heavy rain, as well as the potential for flash floods, mudslides, and localized inundation in neighborhoods and roads across the districts of Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasargod.
Interestingly, there is no weather alert for Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam. However, fishers have been advised against venturing into the turbulent seas.
Government Actions and Emergency Preparedness
The state government has directed district administrations to be ready for any emergency situations. Additionally, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Kerala State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) units have been requisitioned for immediate deployment in districts most susceptible to mudslides and flash floods.
On Saturday, August 1, heavy rainfall, strong winds, and flash flooding severely impacted the state, leading to significant loss of life and damage. According to official reports, rain-related incidents resulted in six fatalities, with another six individuals reported missing.
Landslips occurred in the forested areas of Idukki and Kottayam. Overflowing rivers submerged commercial areas, destroying goods that merchants had prepared for the upcoming Onam shopping season. Additionally, torrents of water swept away vehicles parked along the roads. The destruction of power pylons resulted in power outages, disrupting mobile and internet services in districts like Idukki.
Relief and Rescue Efforts
The government has established 65 relief camps and relocated 1,465 individuals to safer areas. Kottayam has emerged as one of the worst-hit districts, closely followed by Kannur. Currently, storm waters have demolished 17 houses and damaged at least 127 more. Authorities have deployed boats and fishers for search-and-rescue efforts, while cautioning citizens against visiting high-range and coastal vacation spots.
The Revenue Department has been instructed to evaluate crop losses and property damage to initiate compensation disbursement. Furthermore, ex gratia payments will be announced for families that have lost breadwinners due to the floods.
