Vigorous Northeast Monsoon Brings Floods, Rail Disruption to Kerala

The northeast monsoon intensified significantly over Kerala on October 23, 2026, unleashing heavy downpours across the southern and central regions of the state. The Indian Meteorological Department reported widespread rainfall with Mavelikara in Alappuzha district and Venkurinji in Pathanamthitta district recording the highest precipitation at 14 centimetres each, marking a significant weather event for the season.

Railway authorities halted services on key routes after landslips disrupted track infrastructure in multiple locations across the affected districts. Traffic on several important rail corridors remained suspended as engineers assessed structural damage and cleared debris. The Indian Railways mobilized maintenance crews to restore operations at the earliest.

In response to the severe weather, the India Meteorological Department issued orange alerts for nine districts across Kerala, cautioning residents to remain vigilant against potential flooding and landslides. District administrations activated emergency response protocols, with disaster management teams positioned across vulnerable areas. Residents in low-lying regions were advised to move to safer grounds as water levels rose in rivers and streams.

Authorities warned of continued heavy rainfall over the coming days and urged the public to avoid travel to affected areas. The state government coordinated with central agencies to ensure uninterrupted supply of essential services and maintain relief operations in vulnerable pockets.