Kerala reels under torrential rain as floods, landslides claim four lives

Kerala is grappling with severe destruction as relentless rainfall triggers flash floods, landslides, and waterlogging across multiple districts, evoking painful memories of the devastating 2018 floods. At least four people have died, and normal life has been significantly disrupted.

The districts of Pathanamthitta, Idukki, and Kottayam are bearing the brunt of the extreme weather. Overnight rainfall caused rivers to overflow, leading to road collapses and houses being buried under landslides. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for eight districts, forecasting extremely heavy rainfall exceeding 204 mm within a 24-hour period.

In Idukki, two individuals perished in separate landslide incidents. A 69-year-old woman's house was buried, while another victim died when a landslide damaged his residence. In Kottayam, a landslide claimed the lives of a mother and son. Rescue operations, involving the National Disaster Response Force, fire services, and local residents, have been underway to assist those affected.

Several roads have become impassable due to mudslides and landslips, disrupting traffic and isolating communities. A temporary bridge was washed away, leaving nearly 100 families stranded. Floodwaters have inundated towns and submerged parts of major roads, with rescue teams using inflatable boats to evacuate residents to relief camps.