Thiruvananthapuram: The weather department on Wednesday issued red alerts in all 14 districts of the state. The worst-affected Idukki and Wayanad districts received 80mm of rainfall in the last 24 hours. The weather picture is likely to turn more challenging due to heavy to very heavy rains expected in the state till Thursday.
Earlier, red alert was issued for several districts worst affected by the floods, and now the warning has been extended to other districts as well.
The government has issued an advisory that in view of the possibility of land slides, people in high ranges should restrict their travel. It also cautions against going to the sea.
Since several dams are being opened, there exists a possibility of water level rising in canals and rivers, and therefore people should not step into them. Care should also be taken not to waddle the streams running across roads, or to park vehicles near them, in highland areas.
Residents are advised to relocate themselves promptly on instructions from authorities, and people other than well trained voluntary workers, should not venture to visit places affected by flood or landslides. Parents should ensure that children do not play in water ponds and rivers.
District Collector of Idukki has issued a separate warning that since water released from Cheruthoni dam would be raised to 1,300 cumecs from 3 pm, 1,400 cumecs from 4 pm and 1,500 from 5 pm, people should be extremely vigilant.
Further, since the water level of Ponmudi dam is rising at unusual rates, the Collector has given approval to KSEB Dam Safety to open the shutter and release 170 cumecs of water. Therefore, residents on the banks of Panniyar, Muthirappuzhayar and Periyar have to be on high alert.