Heavy rainfall has placed several Kerala districts on alert, with educational institutions closed and residents in vulnerable areas advised to remain cautious. Pathanamthitta, Sabarimala and Ranni face increased flood concerns after three weather stations recorded more than 100 mm of rainfall.
Kerala Rain Alert Raises Statewide Concern
Heavy rain continued across Kerala on Monday, prompting authorities to strengthen emergency preparations as several districts reported intense overnight rainfall. Three weather stations crossed the 100 mm mark, raising concern over waterlogging, river swelling and local flooding.
The situation remained sensitive in Pathanamthitta, especially around Sabarimala, Ranni and nearby low-lying areas. Residents were advised to follow instructions issued by district administrations and move to safer places whenever directed by emergency officials.
Schools Closed In Kerala Districts
District collectors in several rain-hit areas declared a holiday for educational institutions on Monday as a precautionary measure. The closures were intended to reduce travel risks for students, teachers and other staff amid flooded roads, poor visibility and the possibility of falling trees.
Parents and students should check announcements from their respective district administrations because closure orders and examination instructions may differ depending on the location and institution.
Chief Minister V D Satheesan is expected to chair an online review meeting with district collectors to assess rainfall conditions, relief requirements and disaster preparedness. Ministers, elected representatives and emergency teams are also coordinating response measures in affected areas. Satheesan is officially listed as Kerala’s 13th Chief Minister.
Pathanamthitta Flood Risk Intensifies
Officials described conditions in the Sabarimala belt as serious after persistent rainfall increased fears of rising water levels in Ranni and surrounding areas.
Kerala Tourism Minister P C Vishnunadh was reported to be camping in Pathanamthitta to oversee relief and disaster-management operations. He also reviewed conditions at Kozhencherry with Aranmula MLA Abin Varkey, senior officials and local representatives.
People living near rivers, streams, slopes and flood-prone locations were urged to remain alert. Residents of low-lying areas have been asked to relocate when instructed and avoid submerged roads or fast-flowing water. Motorists should remain cautious about possible landslides, fallen trees, damaged roads and reduced visibility during intense spells of rain.
IMD Rainfall Data Shows Intense Downpour
Between 8.30 AM on Sunday and 5.30 AM on Monday, Venkurinji in Pathanamthitta recorded 104.5 mm of rainfall. Udumbannoor in Idukki received 103.0 mm, while Cheruthoni recorded 101.5 mm.
Significant rainfall was also reported in Laha, Thycattussery, Neriamangalam, Ulanadu, Mattancherry, Ranni Chethackal, Vadavathoor, Palluruthy and Munakkal.
The IMD classifies rainfall of 60 mm or more during the observation period as significant. A yellow warning for heavy rainfall was also reported for 10 Kerala districts on August 3, along with strong-wind and fishermen advisories.
With the southwest monsoon remaining active, authorities are continuing surveillance and urging residents to depend on verified weather forecasts and district-administration updates.
