Kerala Braces for Heavy Rain: IMD Issues Red Alert,

Travel Disrupted

Thiruvananthapuram, May 30 – The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red alerts across multiple districts in Kerala, warning of extremely heavy rainfall over the next 48 hours. The alerts, which signal severe weather conditions, have prompted safety advisories and widespread disruption to travel and daily life across the

Districts including Idukki, Kannur, and Kasaragod are under red alert, while orange alerts have been issued in several others, such as Ernakulam and Thiruvananthapuram. The IMD attributes the ongoing downpour to strong westerly winds prevailing over the Arabian Sea, which are expected to continue influencing the state’s weather.

The department has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall, accompanied by gusty winds reaching up to 55 km/h, especially in coastal and high-range areas.

Authorities have imposed night travel restrictions in landslide-prone hilly regions, particularly in Idukki district, following reports of minor landslides and rising water levels. Educational institutions in some districts have been closed as a precautionary measure.

In low-lying areas, including parts of Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram, waterlogging and localized flooding have been reported, hampering road transport and emergency response efforts.

The IMD has also warned fishermen against venturing into the sea due to rough conditions and the possibility of high waves reaching up to 3.7 meters along the coast. Coastal residents are advised to stay indoors and avoid traveling near shorelines.

In Thiruvananthapuram, one person was reported dead and another missing after strong winds and waves struck the Vizhinjam harbour area. Local authorities reported damage to over 140 houses, and multiple relief camps have been set up for those displaced by flooding.

The state government has urged residents to remain alert, avoid unnecessary travel, and follow official updates closely. Emergency services remain on high alert, and disaster management teams have been deployed to vulnerable areas.