Thiruvananthapuram / Puducherry, October 22, 2025 — Heavy rains continued to lash South India, prompting authorities to issue red and orange weather alerts in Kerala, Puducherry, and Karaikal. Governments have declared school and college closures in affected districts, prioritizing the safety of students and the public.
“We are monitoring all districts closely. Residents are advised to avoid venturing out unless absolutely necessary,” said Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in an official statement.
🌧️ Rainfall Overview
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that parts of Kerala, including Kozhikode, Malappuram, and Wayanad, experienced extremely heavy rainfall exceeding 150 mm in 24 hours, leading to localized waterlogging and disruptions in transport. Puducherry and Karaikal witnessed continuous downpours, forcing the administration to close schools and colleges on October 22.
Orange and red alerts have been issued for several districts as IMD predicts further rainfall over the next 48 hours.
“The rainfall is part of a strong low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal, which is bringing intense showers across the southern peninsula,” explained IMD Senior Meteorologist Dr. Rajesh Singh.
🏫 School & Public Safety Measures
In line with the weather advisories, schools and colleges in the affected districts have been closed. The authorities have also:
Alerted emergency response teams and disaster management units
Advised residents to avoid low-lying areas prone to flooding
Cautioned commuters about potential road blockages and landslides
“The safety of our children is paramount. School closures are necessary to prevent accidents due to flooded streets and waterlogging,” said Puducherry Education Minister A. Namassivayam.
Local administrations are working round-the-clock to clear drainage systems and provide temporary shelters for residents in vulnerable areas.
🚧 Impact on Daily Life
Heavy rains have caused disruptions in transport and daily activities across southern India:
Road traffic slowed due to waterlogged streets and minor landslides in hilly areas of Kerala
Train and bus services faced delays in affected districts
Flights at Trivandrum and Kochi airports reported minor delays due to poor visibility
“The monsoon’s intensity this year is unusual for October. Residents should stay indoors and follow official advisories,” warned Dr. Singh.
Local businesses, particularly in flood-prone areas, have also been asked to take precautionary measures to protect inventory and infrastructure.
🌊 Expert Advice & Precautions
Weather experts advise residents to:
Avoid crossing flooded roads or rivers
Keep emergency kits and essentials ready in case of evacuation
Stay updated via official IMD warnings and local administration alerts
“The heavy rainfall can escalate quickly, leading to urban flooding and landslides. Citizens must not underestimate the risk,” said Sunil Sharma, Disaster Management Consultant.
Authorities have urged people to avoid outdoor celebrations or travel during the next 24–48 hours.
🔮 Looking Ahead
IMD forecasts that the heavy rains will gradually decrease after October 24, though isolated showers may persist in coastal regions. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and follow official instructions until the weather stabilizes.
The rains, while causing short-term disruption, also replenish water reservoirs and aid agriculture, particularly in rain-dependent regions of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
“We urge citizens to balance caution with preparation. Heavy rain is part of our ecosystem, but safety must come first,” said Pinarayi Vijayan.
Conclusion:
As South India faces heavy rainfall and extreme weather alerts, authorities have prioritized public safety through school closures, emergency preparedness, and advisories. Citizens are urged to stay informed, avoid unnecessary travel, and take precautions to navigate the ongoing weather challenges safely.
