Kozhikode/Wayanad, May 28, 2025 –
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for the districts of Kozhikode and Wayanad in Kerala, warning of extremely heavy rainfall over the next five days. The development is linked to a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal, which has intensified, bringing widespread and persistent rain across the state.
Orange Alerts Issued for Nine Districts
An orange alert—signaling heavy to very heavy rainfall—has been declared for nine other districts: Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kannur, and Kasaragod. The remaining districts are under yellow alert, indicating the possibility of moderate rainfall.
Flooding and Evacuations Underway
Authorities have confirmed that over 690 people have been moved to relief camps in Wayanad due to waterlogging and landslide threats. In Kozhikode, precautionary evacuations have begun in high-risk areas, and road access to several regions has been restricted due to potential landslides.
In Alappuzha, reports indicate damage to over 390 homes, with widespread power outages and disruptions to transportation.
Schools Closed, Tourism Suspended
As a safety measure, educational institutions in Wayanad, Kozhikode, and Idukki remained closed on Tuesday. The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has advised against night travel and warned residents to avoid water-logged and hilly areas.
All mining and tourism activities in vulnerable locations, including waterfalls and hill stations, have been temporarily suspended to prevent accidents.
Rough Seas Along the Coast
The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) has warned of high sea waves reaching up to 3.3 meters along the Kerala coast until May 29. Fisherfolk have been strongly advised to avoid venturing into the sea.
Early Monsoon Arrival Intensifies Concerns
Kerala witnessed the earliest monsoon onset in 16 years, arriving on May 24, eight days ahead of schedule. The early arrival has led to a spike in rainfall across the state, with many rivers swelling and the soil in hilly areas already saturated—raising the risk of landslides and flash floods.
Authorities Urge Vigilance
Residents are urged to:
- Stay tuned to official weather updates from the IMD and KSDMA.
- Avoid unnecessary travel, especially at night.
- Relocate to safe zones if residing in landslide-prone areas.
- Follow local administration and police advisories without delay.
Disclaimer
This article is based on information sourced from official weather bulletins issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA), and leading news agencies including Onmanorama, Times of India, and The Indian Express as of May 28, 2025. Weather conditions can change rapidly. Readers are advised to refer to the latest official advisories and updates from government authorities for accurate and real-time information.
Credits: Onmanorama | Times of India | The Indian Express | IMD | KSDMA
