Kerala Rains: IMD Issues Red Alert for Idukki District, Emergency Centres, Hospitals on Alert

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has  issued a red alert for Pathanamthitta and Idukki districts in Kerala, predicting extremely heavy rainfall on May 22.The IMD issued an orange alert for eight districts, including the capital Thiruvananthapuram, which has been experiencing widespread rainfall. Additionally, a yellow alert was issued for six northern districts: Palakkad, Kozhikode, Kannur, Malappuram, Wayanad, and Kasaragod.

VIDEO | Heavy rains lashes Kerala's Idukki. IMD issued a red alert in the district.

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A red alert indicates heavy to extremely heavy rain of over 20 cm in 24 hours, while an orange alert means very heavy rain of 11 cm to 20 cm, and a yellow alert means heavy rainfall between 6 cm and 11 cm. In view of the heavy rains emergency operation centres have been opened in all district collectorates and taluk offices as there is a possibility of landslides and musdlides. Hospitals have also been put on alert and supplies stocked to handle any eventuality, such as an epidemic outbreak. 

Also Read: Kerala Rains: Red Alert Issued In 4 Districts Night Travel, Off Road-Riding Banned

Special directions have been given to alert tourists who arrive in the state about the rain situation. Meanwhile, intense water logging, uprooting of trees, and snapping of electric wires were reported in various places across the state on Monday due to heavy rains. Health Minister Veena George  said the Health Department has issued a warning to all districts about the possible outbreak of epidemics in the wake of continuing heavy rains. "Many epidemics are likely to occur due to climate change. Hospitals have been alerted. Instructions have already been given to ensure availability of medicines," she said in a statement.