Are Monsoon Rains Causing Chaos in Kerala?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The monsoon rains in Kerala have led to significant disruptions, including train delays.
- Authorities have established relief camps for affected individuals.
- Heavy rainfall is expected to continue over the coming days, prompting warnings from the IMD.
- Local officials are assessing damages and coordinating response efforts.
- Public safety remains a priority as conditions evolve.
Thiruvananthapuram, May 27 (NationPress) The monsoon season has unleashed its fury upon Kerala, bringing with it strong winds and heavy rainfall that have resulted in significant destruction throughout the state.
Reports indicate numerous incidents of uprooted trees, collapsed walls, and electrical failures from various locations within the region.
Following the onset of the monsoon on May 24, three fatalities have been confirmed, prompting the state authorities to establish multiple relief camps in the hardest-hit areas.
A major disruption on Tuesday was the delay of train services across Kerala, as fallen trees obstructed railway tracks. Consequently, several trains are now running four to five hours late.
The local meteorological department recorded substantial rainfall on Tuesday morning in Thrissur, Kozhikode, and Kannur districts.
Vellanikara in Thrissur registered the highest rainfall at 114.7 mm, with Kozhikode city and Kannur following closely at 113.4 mm and 113.2 mm respectively.
P.A. Mohammed Riyas, the State Public Works Department Minister, inspected the railway tracks near Kozhikode to evaluate the extent of the damage.
“We have already notified the railways to manage trees along the tracks effectively. Meetings and reviews with local representatives took place as early as April. However, the current weather patterns have changed significantly, presenting new challenges,” stated Riyas.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy rainfall (7-11 cm in 24 hours) to very heavy rainfall (12-20 cm in 24 hours) in several areas of Kerala on May 27, with isolated heavy rain expected from May 28 to 30.
Further heavy rain is also anticipated in isolated parts of Kerala on May 31 and June 1, as well as in Lakshadweep on May 26.
The IMD has also issued a warning for squally weather with wind speeds of 35 to 50 km/h, gusting up to 60 km/h, along and off the coast of Kerala.