AMN
Heavy rains continue to wreak havoc in Kerala. Strong westerly winds and cyclonic low depression formed over Arabian Sea has been cited triggered incessant rains which have battered Central and southern Kerala. AIR correspondent reports, Rainfall is heavy in hilly and low-lying areas.
The heavy downpour have flooded most of the regions reporting widespread damage. MC road in Kollam, Aluva city, many areas of Pathanamthitta, Pandalam etc are facing widespread flooding. Met dept forecasts heavy rains in the state today and tomorrow.
Red alert is declared in Ernakulam, Idukki and Thrissur districts and Orange alert in nine districts. The Idukki dam will be opened today as water level rose. High alert is declared in landslide probe regions and areas on the riverside.
In-state, a red alert is in place in 13 dams across the state. Water will be released from Idukki reservoir this afternoon. A shutter of Cheruthoni dam will be raised 40 cm allowing the release 40 cumecs of water from the reservoir.
State Irrigation Minister Roshy Augustine said it was decided to release water even before the red alert mark, as a precautionary measure to regulate water level in the reservoir. The dam’s water level is at 2398.80 ft as against its Full Reservoir Level of 2403 ft.
The move also takes into account the first warning issued by Tamil Nadu about the possibility of opening the spillway shutters of Mullaperiyar dam, following its water level touching140 ft at nine this morning.
Authorities have warned people living on the banks of river Periyar to remain alert. Both reservoirs were experiencing increased water inflow following heavy rains in their catchment areas.
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