The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) on Thursday issued a yellow alert in Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur and Malappuram districts on Monday, April 29, in view of heavy rainfall that has been predicted in these areas. 

The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has issued mudslide warnings in various districts of Kerala. The warnings have been issued following the IMD’s prediction of heavy rains in parts of Kerala in the coming days.  

“As Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Malappuram, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Wayanad, Kozhikode and Palakkad districts have chances of mudslides, people should restrain themselves from travelling in hilly terrains of these districts from 7pm to 7am,” said a release of KSDMA.

According to IMD, the state will receive light to moderate rainfall till April 28. Strong winds of up to 30-50 kmph are also expected from April 28 morning. The wind speed could increase to 40-50 kmph reaching up to 60 kmph from 29th morning onwards, predicts IMD.

The IMD has also given warnings to fishermen not to venture into the sea during this time. “Fishermen are advised not to venture into the sea areas during these days. Those who are in deep sea are advised to return to respective coasts by 28th April,” says IMD.

KSDMA has issued instructions for people in order to avoid unforeseen circumstances:

• Do not spread fake information from social media. Keep a watch on Chief Minister’s and KSDMA’s official Facebook pages.
• Those who live in areas near rivers, which have a history of flooding, should prepare and keep emergency kits.
• There are chances of water level increase in rivers and canals. Do not enter the water for bathing, recreation or washing.
• Do not park vehicles under trees and electric posts during the time of speedy winds.
• Do not park or wait in vehicles near the canals that are beside roads in hilly areas. There is possibility of mudslides, which could lead to waters gushing out through these areas.
• Do not go to tourist spots near hilly terrains or beaches.
• District emergency operation centre number is 1077. Add STD code of each district to this number while dialling.