Orange alert in 5 Kerala districts, fishermen told to stay off coast

Kerala is currently experiencing intense rainfall, with thunder and lightning reported in various regions on Wednesday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for five southern districts - Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, and Kottayam, predicting very heavy showers in isolated locations over the next 24 hours.

Five additional districts - Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, and Malappuram - have been placed under a yellow alert, which may witness heavy rainfall ranging from 64.5 mm to 115.5 mm.

The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has activated precautionary sirens in the districts under the orange alert as of Wednesday evening. The IMD has advised fishermen to refrain from venturing along the Kerala-Lakshadweep coastline from October 21 to October 25.

Authorities have urged people in vulnerable zones, particularly those at risk of landslides, mudslides, flash floods, and those residing near rivers or dams, to seek shelter in safe locations when advised by officials. Citizens are also being advised to familiarize themselves with the location of the nearest relief camps and relocate during daylight hours with assistance from local panchayats and revenue officials.

The KSDMA has further cautioned against entering water bodies such as rivers, ponds, or other sources for bathing or fishing during heavy rainfall and advises against taking selfies or photographs near bridges. It is also recommended to avoid non-essential travel, delaying visits to waterfalls, rivers, and hill stations until the alerts are lifted.

Drivers are urged to exercise caution on roads near water bodies or under repair, avoiding waterlogged routes or streams that are overflowing. The KSDMA has activated round-the-clock operations at taluk and district control rooms across the state, providing citizens with the ability to reach out for assistance or report hazards through toll-free numbers 1077 and 1070.