Kerala news: Storm intensifies in south-west

Kerala: Two days after the Southwest Monsoon made an early onset over Kerala, widespread rains lashed several parts of the state triggering landslides, uprooting trees and leading to waterlogging.Kottayam, Idukki and some parts of Ernakulam have been witnessing intense downpour since Friday night.Landslides and trees getting uprooted were reported at Poochapra and Kolappra areas, located in the interiors of hill district Idukki last night.Some houses and vehicles were damaged in the landslip, but no casualties were reported, locals said.
Traffic restrictions were put in place along Thodupuzha-Puliyanmala state highway due to the possible threat of mudslides.As five shutters of the Malankara Dam in Idukki were raised, district authorities advised those living on the banks of Thodupuzha and Muvattupuzha rivers to exercise caution.With various parts of the neighbouring Kottayam district receiving downpour, people living close to Meenachal and Manimala rivers were also urged to remain vigilant.

Incessant rains that battered several parts of Kottayam for hours since last evening caused waterlogging and traffic snarls.While Vadavathoor region received 100 mm rainfall on Friday night, the urban areas of Kottayam got 99 mm, authorities said.Though the port city of Kochi received moderate rains, Aluva region of Ernakulam experienced intense rains since May 31 night.As per the latest update of the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), thunderstorm with light to moderate rainfall and gusty winds reaching upto a speed of 40 kmph is likely at one or two places in Ernakulam,Thrissur and Malappuram districts in the morning.