Kerala Places Wayanad On Red Alert Following Fatal Landslide During Heavy Rains

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday issued a red alert for Kerala's Wayanad district after a landslide at an under-construction tunnel project claimed one life amid heavy rainfall. The alert was issued at 12.30 pm, shortly after the landslide struck the Kalladi tunnel project site at around 11 am, prompting authorities to intensify rescue and disaster response operations. The landslide occurred near the Kalladi tunnel project in Wayanad, where heavy rain triggered the collapse of soil and debris. Rescue teams, including personnel from the police, Fire and Rescue Services and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), were deployed to the site to search for workers and assist those affected.

The incident comes as Kerala continues to experience widespread monsoon rainfall across several northern districts. Following the incident, the IMD also issued a red alert for neighbouring Kozhikode district, warning of the possibility of extremely heavy rainfall. In addition, orange alerts were issued for Malappuram, Kannur and Kasaragod districts, indicating the likelihood of very heavy rain and the potential for flooding, landslides and disruption to normal life.

According to rainfall data released by the IMD, Mananthavady in Wayanad recorded 64 mm of rainfall during the day, while Vythiri received 123 mm. Continuous rainfall has saturated the soil in many hilly areas, increasing the risk of landslides and flash floods, particularly in vulnerable regions of the Western Ghats. The IMD classifies a red alert as a warning for extremely heavy rainfall exceeding 204 mm in 24 hours, requiring immediate preparedness and response from local authorities. An orange alert signifies very heavy rainfall between 115 mm and 204 mm, while a yellow alert indicates heavy rainfall ranging from 64 mm to 115 mm.

Also Read: Kerala’s Wayanad Tunnel Site Suffers Landslide, Rescue Teams Search For Trapped Workers

These alerts are intended to help disaster management agencies prepare for weather-related emergencies and minimise potential loss of life and property. Authorities have urged residents living in landslide-prone and low-lying areas to remain vigilant and follow official advisories. Emergency response teams have been placed on high alert, while district administrations are closely monitoring weather conditions and river levels. People have also been advised to avoid unnecessary travel through hilly regions, especially during periods of intense rainfall.

Kerala experiences frequent landslides during the southwest monsoon due to its mountainous terrain and prolonged heavy rainfall. Districts such as Wayanad, Kozhikode, Idukki and Malappuram are particularly vulnerable during the rainy season. The latest red alerts underscore the continuing threat posed by intense monsoon activity and the need for precautionary measures as heavy rain is expected to persist in parts of the state over the coming days.

Also Read: IMD Issues Orange Alert for Kerala Wayanad; Heatwave Warnings for Delhi, Haryana and Punjab