Thiruvananthapuram: Heavy rainfall continues to lash Kerala, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue a red alert in four districts—Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, and Kannur. Additionally, an orange alert has been announced for Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, and Kasaragod districts.
In light of the adverse weather, district authorities have declared a holiday for all educational institutions in Kottayam, Idukki, Wayanad, Pathanamthitta, and Kannur on Monday. The closure extends to anganwadis, tuition centres, schools, and professional colleges, while pre-scheduled exams will proceed as planned. In Idukki, residential institutions operating entirely as hostels are exempted from the closure.
Meanwhile, heavy rain in Sabarimala has led to restrictions for pilgrims also. Trekking along the Azhuthakkadavu-Pampa forest route has been completely prohibited, and devotees are barred from entering the Pampa River or using nearby bathing ghats. These measures, enforced by District Collector S Prem Krishnan, aim to ensure safety amid the rising water levels. Although no immediate threats have been reported, the authorities remain cautious.
In Pathanamthitta, rainfall eased overnight in forested and eastern regions, though an orange alert remains in place. Traffic in the landslide-affected Erumeli area has been restored. The IMD’s alerts highlight the need for continued vigilance across the state.
