Monsoon Fury in Kerala: Alappuzha, Kannur, Idukki Bear Brunt of Heavy Rains

Thiruvananthapuram: Heavy rains accompanied by strong winds wreaked havoc across Kerala on Wednesday, causing widespread damage. Houses were damaged, trees were uprooted, and water levels in rivers and dams rose steadily. Districts such as Thrissur and Ernakulam reported high tides and sea incursions, while Kozhikode's high ranges experienced devastating landslides. Alappuzha, Kannur, and Idukki districts saw significant damage to homes due to the relentless downpour and strong winds that began on Tuesday night.

In Kollam district, a portion of the "annadana mandapam" (dining hall) at the renowned Ochira Parabrahma Temple collapsed under the incessant rain. Numerous trees along the banks of the Periyar River in Aluva near Ernakulam were uprooted.

Authorities raised shutters at several dams, including Malankara, Pambla, and Kallarkutty, to release excess water. The Ernakulam District Administration advised residents living along the Muvattupuzha and Thodupuzha rivers to remain vigilant, as three shutters of the Malankara Dam were raised by one meter each.

In response to the ongoing rains, educational institutions in Kottayam district were given a holiday on Wednesday.

According to the latest radar imagery, moderate to intense rainfall with wind gusts up to 40 kmph is expected in Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, and Thrissur districts in the coming hours. The State Disaster Management Authority has warned that waterlogging on major roads and poor visibility may lead to traffic congestion. They recommended regulating traffic effectively and restricting non-essential movements.

(With PTI Inputs)