Heavy rains continued to affect parts of Kerala on Monday, triggering flash floods and landslides in Malappuram, Idukki and other districts, with rescue and search operations underway.
Five people were killed in the flash flood at TK Nagar in Malappuram, while a search continued for a woman who remains missing. Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan visited the affected area and said the flash flood occurred unexpectedly. He noted that the site was not officially designated as a tourist destination but had become popular through social media, drawing visitors to the scenic location.
Satheesan called for stronger safety measures and said the state would further strengthen its disaster management system. NDRF, police and fire and rescue personnel are continuing search operations, with local residents also helping authorities.
In Idukki, landslides and mudslides were reported in several areas. The bodies of Balakrishnan and his sister Chinnu, who were killed in a landslide at Vattavada, were laid to rest. Balakrishnan’s injured wife remains under treatment.
A landslide in Pazhampallichal, Adimali, destroyed a house, while five families were evacuated to a relief camp as a precaution. Tourists travelling along the Vagamon-Erattupetta road also had a narrow escape after a mudslide hit their vehicle.
Civil Supplies Minister Anoop Jacob urged people to avoid unnecessary travel to Idukki amid the continuing bad weather. Authorities are also examining whether soil excavation linked to National Highway works may have contributed to landslide concerns in the district.
The Kerala Meteorological Department attributed the intense rainfall to a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal, with rising temperatures also contributing to the strengthening of rain clouds.
The India Meteorological Department has advised fisherfolk not to venture into the sea on September 21 and 22 along the Kerala, Karnataka and Lakshadweep coasts, citing strong winds and rough sea conditions.
