Kerala Floods: Death Toll Climbs to 11, More Than 7,600 Shifted to Relief Camps

The death toll from Kerala’s relentless monsoon rains has risen to 11, while more than 7,600 people have been evacuated to relief camps as widespread flooding and waterlogging continue to disrupt normal life across the state.

According to the latest update from the state government, 7,674 people have been shifted to 273 relief camps, where authorities have arranged food, drinking water and medical facilities. The government has also stepped up measures to prevent outbreaks of waterborne and other communicable diseases.

Malappuram Worst Hit

Revenue Minister A.P. Anilkumar said Malappuram has reported the highest number of fatalities, with four deaths. Thiruvananthapuram, Alappuzha and Idukki have recorded two deaths each, while one person died in Kozhikode. Search operations are continuing for those reported missing.

The minister said Pathanamthitta has the highest number of relief camps at 75, followed by Kottayam (64), Kozhikode (36), Wayanad (28), Kannur (18), Alappuzha (14), Idukki (13), Ernakulam (7), and Thrissur and Kasaragod with six camps each.

Authorities said 30 houses have been completely destroyed, while another 293 have suffered partial damage in rain-related incidents.

Floodwaters Continue to Disrupt Life

Although rainfall eased in several areas on Sunday, floodwaters remained in many towns and villages, including Aranmula and Ranni, hampering normal life.

Residents, local representatives, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel and volunteers joined hands to remove debris, clear clogged drains and restore affected areas.

In Pathanamthitta district, water levels in the Pamba River continued to rise, raising fresh concerns in Ranni, which had recently experienced flash floods.

With the Moozhiyar Dam catchment under a Red Alert, authorities warned that the dam’s shutters could be opened if inflows increase further. Residents living along the Pamba River have been advised to remain alert and move to safer locations if instructed.

The overflowing river also inundated commercial areas in Ranni, causing heavy losses to traders.

Government Reviews Rescue Efforts

Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan chaired a virtual meeting with district collectors to review the flood situation, rescue operations and preparedness measures across Kerala.

The state government has announced financial assistance for families who lost relatives, homes, crops and livelihoods in the rain-related disasters. Those injured will receive medical treatment and other necessary support.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi expressed condolences to the families of those who died and appealed to Congress workers and volunteers to assist relief and rescue efforts. He also urged residents, particularly those living in hilly areas, to remain vigilant and follow advisories issued by the authorities.

Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also condoled the deaths and called on Congress and UDF workers to extend all possible assistance to people affected by the floods.