New Delhi: Heavy rainfall continued to batter Kerala, pushing the flood situation into a critical phase as the death toll rose to 11 and more than 7,600 people were evacuated to relief camps across the state. Widespread flooding and severe waterlogging have disrupted normal life in both urban and rural areas, with rescue teams remaining on alert in the worst affected districts.
According to the state government, 7,674 people have been moved to 273 relief camps, where authorities are providing food, drinking water and medical assistance. Measures have also been put in place to prevent the outbreak of waterborne diseases and other epidemics in flood affected regions.
Malappuram has reported the highest number of fatalities, with four deaths. Thiruvananthapuram, Alappuzha and Idukki have each recorded two deaths, while one person lost their life in Kozhikode. Search operations are continuing in several districts to trace missing persons.
Pathanamthitta has the highest number of relief camps with 75, followed by Kottayam with 64. Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, Alappuzha, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur and Kasaragod have also established camps to shelter displaced residents. Authorities reported that 30 houses have been completely destroyed, while another 293 homes have sustained varying degrees of damage.
Although rainfall eased in some areas on Sunday, floodwaters continued to inundate several towns, including Aranmula and Ranni. Residents, National Disaster Response Force personnel, public representatives and volunteers have been working together to clear blocked drains and remove debris in an effort to speed up the drainage of floodwaters.
Authorities have also issued a high alert in Pathanamthitta as the Moozhiyar Dam catchment remains under a Red Alert. Residents living along the banks of the Pamba River have been advised to stay vigilant and be prepared for immediate evacuation if water levels rise further.
Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan chaired a virtual review meeting with district collectors to assess the flood situation, rescue operations and disaster preparedness. The state government has assured financial assistance for families affected by the floods, including compensation for loss of life, damage to homes, crops and livelihoods, while medical treatment is being provided to those injured.
