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Heavy rainfall across several parts of Kerala has prompted the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue a red alert in Kannur and Kasaragod districts for Saturday, May 24, 2025. An orange alert has also been issued in nine districts — Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Wayanad.
A yellow alert has been sounded in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam and Alappuzha, but these districts are also witnessing heavy rainfall in isolated areas, leading to disruptions.
In Kannur, authorities have ordered the suspension of operations at major quarries and red-brick manufacturing units after a migrant worker was killed in a landslide while working with red sandstone on Friday, May 23. Parts of the National Highway service roads in Kannur and Kasaragod were submerged after a single spell of intense rain, disrupting vehicular movement.
In the capital city Thiruvananthapuram, strong winds uprooted several trees and branches, blocking roads and disrupting traffic in multiple areas. In Vizhinjam, a tree fell on a power line, leading to power outages. Locals also reported that no warning signs were placed near areas where trees had fallen, even hours after the incidents, particularly in Vanchiyoor.
The District Information Office announced that shutters 1 to 5 of the Aruvikkara Dam were raised by 20 cm each at around 8 am on Saturday, releasing a total of 100 cm of water. District Collector Anu Kumari IAS has urged residents living downstream to remain vigilant.
In Kozhikode, trees falling on power lines due to strong winds and rain caused widespread power outages. While no casualties have been reported, the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) is working to restore the affected lines. Officials have also issued warnings to the public to remain cautious, especially in the high-range areas affected by tornado-like winds and heavy rainfall.
In Thrissur, a landslide triggered by the rains damaged four houses. Officials said nearly 20 feet of soil had been dumped in the area over the years, contributing to the disaster. Residents have reportedly been petitioning the Geology Department for five years, seeking permission to remove the accumulated soil. Locals said they are repeatedly asked to relocate during every monsoon season but no permanent solution has been provided.