Torrential rains have battered Kerala, particularly its central and northern districts, causing a significant rise in water levels across dams and rivers, authorities reported on Tuesday. The relentless downpour has pushed several dams in Pathanamthitta, Idukki, Thrissur, Wayanad, and Palakkad to the second and third stages of alert, prompting officials to release excess water to prevent potential breaches. In Palakkad, the shutters of Meenkara, Walayar, and Siruvani dams, along with the Moolathara regulator, have been opened to manage the surging inflows, according to district authorities.

Rivers across the state are also swelling dangerously, with the Achankovil in Pathanamthitta and Karuvannur in Thrissur reaching “yellow alert” status, as reported by the Irrigation Design and Research Board (IDRB) and the Central Water Commission (CWC). The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an “orange alert” for Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod, forecasting very heavy rainfall of 11 to 20 cm, while six other districts are under a “yellow alert” for heavy rains between 6 and 11 cm. Authorities are urging residents to stay cautious, particularly in low-lying and riverine areas.

The heavy rainfall has heightened concerns about flooding, especially in vulnerable regions like Wayanad, which has faced devastating landslides in recent years. District administrations are on high alert, with disaster response teams deployed to monitor water levels and assist communities at risk. The release of water from dams has sparked fears of downstream flooding, prompting officials to issue warnings for residents near rivers and canals to avoid venturing into swollen waterbodies.

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Kerala’s monsoon woes have disrupted daily life, with reports of waterlogging in urban areas and traffic snarls in several districts. The IMD’s forecast suggests no immediate respite, as the weather system driving the rains is expected to persist. Local authorities are coordinating with the State Disaster Management Authority to prepare for potential evacuations and relief operations, particularly in areas under orange alert, where the risk of flash floods is high.

As the state grapples with the deluge, community leaders and environmentalists are calling for improved flood management infrastructure to mitigate the recurring impacts of heavy monsoons. The rising water levels in dams and rivers underscore the urgency of long-term planning to address climate-driven weather challenges. For now, Kerala remains on edge, with residents urged to stay updated on weather alerts and prioritize safety as the rains continue to pour.

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