IDUKKI, Kerala – May 19, 2024: Authorities in Idukki district have imposed a night travel curfew in the wake of heavy rainfall and potential landslides. The curfew will be in effect from 7 pm tonight to 6 am tomorrow, and will remain until the red alert for heavy rain is withdrawn.
This follows a similar night travel ban implemented in Pathanamthitta district, which remains in effect until Thursday.
Kerala Braces for Monsoon Fury:
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Pathanamthitta district, warning of extremely heavy rainfall exceeding 20 cm in 24 hours. Residents are urged to exercise extreme caution as there’s a high chance of landslides and mudslides.
Orange alerts indicating very heavy rainfall are in place for Thiruvananthapuram, Idukki, Malappuram, and Kozhikode districts. The remaining districts are under a yellow alert for moderate rain.
Preparations Underway in Pathanamthitta:
In anticipation of the heavy downpour, Pathanamthitta district officials are taking extensive precautionary measures. Authorities have identified potential evacuation zones and prepared relief camps to house residents in areas susceptible to landslides and mudslides. A total of 44 locations across the state have been flagged as high-risk for natural disasters.
Travel Restrictions and Quarry Ban:
Night travel restrictions are also in place for Thiruvananthapuram’s hilly regions, allowing only essential services to operate. Additionally, quarrying activities have been banned in Thiruvanthapuram, Pathanamthitta, and Idukki districts.
The IMD attributes the ongoing heavy rainfall to a cyclonic circulation over Tamil Nadu. The department predicts the formation of a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal by Wednesday.
Monsoon Arrives Soon:
The IMD forecasts the southwest monsoon to reach the south-central Bay of Bengal, south Andaman Sea, and Nicobar Islands within the next 36 hours. The monsoon is expected to hit Kerala by May 31st.
Stay Safe, Kerala!
Residents are advised to avoid travel in areas experiencing heavy rainfall and to exercise caution, especially in landslide-prone regions. Closely follow advisories issued by local authorities and don’t hesitate to seek shelter in relief camps if necessary.
