Heavy Rain Batters Kerala; Red Alert in Five Northern Districts, Schools Closed in Most Regions

Thiruvananthapuram: The southwest monsoon has intensified across Kerala. A Red Alert has been declared in five northern districts due to the likelihood of extremely heavy rainfall. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued the highest level of weather warning for Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod, where strong winds reaching speeds of up to 50 kilometres per hour are also expected.
As a precaution, the state government has announced the closure of educational institutions in 11 districts, excluding Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and Alappuzha. However, in Alappuzha district, schools and colleges in Kuttanad taluk will remain closed due to localised weather risks.
The National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) has issued a warning for high waves, ranging between 3 to 4.1 meters, and the possibility of sea incursion along the Kerala coast until 8:30 PM on Monday. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea along the coasts of Kerala, Karnataka, and Lakshadweep until June 19 due to hazardous sea conditions.
Weather officials have attributed the worsening conditions to a cyclonic circulation present over southern Maharashtra and the northeastern Arabian Sea. This system is expected to strengthen the westerly winds over Kerala in the coming days, further fuelling heavy rainfall across the region.
Alongside the Red Alert, the IMD has also issued Orange and Yellow Alerts in several districts for June 16 and 17, indicating the potential for heavy to very heavy rainfall in central and northern parts of the state. Authorities have warned of the increased risk of landslides and mudslides in hilly regions and have urged residents, especially in vulnerable areas, to remain cautious and follow official advisories.
With rains continuing and water levels rising in rivers and low-lying areas, disaster management teams and local administrations have been placed on high alert. Emergency response mechanisms are being closely monitored to ensure rapid action if the situation worsens.