Kerala: Heavy rain continued to lash several parts of Kerala, with three weather stations recording more than 100 mm of rainfall, according to India Meteorological Department (IMD) data released on Monday.
Authorities also warned of a worsening situation in Pathanamthitta district, particularly in the Sabarimala region, as water levels were expected to rise in Ranni and nearby areas.
As the downpour continued, district collectors in several parts of the state declared a holiday for all educational institutions on Monday. Chief Minister VD Satheesan will also chair an online review meeting with district collectors to assess the evolving rain situation.
The office of Kerala Tourism Minister PC Vishnunadh said the relentless rainfall in the Sabarimala region had created a serious situation in Pathanamthitta.
It said the minister was camping in the district to oversee disaster management and relief operations, besides reviewing the situation at Kozhencherry along with Aranmula MLA Abin Varkey, senior government officials and other elected representatives.
Residents living in low-lying areas have been directed to move to safer locations as overnight rainfall increased the risk of flooding.
According to IMD data, between 8.30 am on Sunday and 5.30 am on Monday, Venkurinji in Pathanamthitta recorded the highest rainfall at 104.5 mm. Udumbannoor in Idukki received 103.0 mm of rainfall, while Cheruthoni in Idukki recorded 101.5 mm.
Several other locations also witnessed significant rainfall during the same period. Laha in Pathanamthitta recorded 87.0 mm, Thycattussery in Alappuzha received 80.0 mm, Neriamangalam in Ernakulam recorded 75.0 mm, and Ulanadu in Pathanamthitta received 74.5 mm. Mattancherry in Ernakulam recorded 71.0 mm, followed by Ranni Chethackal in Pathanamthitta with 65.5 mm, Vadavathoor in Kottayam with 64.0 mm, Palluruthy in Ernakulam with 63.0 mm, and Munakkal in Thrissur with 62.0 mm.
The IMD classified all these locations as having received significant rainfall, which is defined as 60 mm or more during the observation period.
With the southwest monsoon remaining active, widespread rainfall is expected to continue across Kerala, while authorities remain on high alert, particularly in vulnerable areas of Pathanamthitta district.
