Heavy rains in Kerala claimed the life of a 36-year-old man following a landslip in Idukki district on Wednesday.

“The south-west monsoon has set in over Kerala and Lakshadweep,” said K Santosh, head of the India Meteorological Department's regional centre in Thiruvananthapuram.

Former SFI Idukki district president, Jobi John died while his mother was seriously injured, when mounds of earth and rocks fell on their home following heavy rains at Vazhavara, police said. His father escaped unhurt and informed neighbours who engaged in rescue operations. The mother's condition is stated to be serious and she has been taken to a hospital in Kochi for specialized treatment.

In view of the treacherous road conditions due to the continuous downpour, Thiruvananthapuram district authorities have taken precautionary steps to restrict the flow of tourists to hill stations like Ponmudi.

People are also being advised to avoid travelling during night on hilly roads.Incessant rains have lashed several parts of the state since Tuesday. 

Meanwhile, anganvadi block of a government school in Thazhathangady in Kottayam district collapsed on Wednesday morning. No causalities have been reported