Heavy rains in Kerala have killed 15 people and left seven missing, Chief Minister Satheesan said on Wednesday. He announced emergency preparations in Pathanamthitta district to tackle the flood situation, as the state's weather monitoring was hampered by delayed forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
The chief minister said the delay in receiving timely IMD forecasts created difficulties during the initial hours of extreme rainfall. Kerala relies primarily on IMD forecasts to monitor weather conditions, he explained.
Authorities have been put on alert in Pathanamthitta and other rain-affected areas. Rescue and relief operations are under way, with officials working to account for the missing. The exact circumstances of the deaths and the locations of the missing were not immediately disclosed.
The IMD has been criticised in the past for not providing accurate early warnings during Kerala's severe flood seasons. This year's heavy rains have once again underscored the state's dependence on accurate and timely weather data to minimise casualties and property damage.
As the rain continues, the government has urged residents in vulnerable areas to remain vigilant and cooperate with evacuation orders. Further updates on the toll and rescue efforts are expected as the situation develops.