Landslide causes casualties and damage in Kerala state on August 7
Category: Transportation
Severity: 4 (High)
Source: Drum Cussac
08/09/2020 (India) - Officials in the southern Indian state of Kerala have announced that at least 43 people were killed on Friday, August 7, in a landslide in the Rajamala area of Idukki district. The landslide occurred following torrential rains in the area, which caused part of the Pettimudi hills to break loose, burying a tea plantation and more than 20 houses. One bridge and several roads were reportedly washed away, although the bridge has since been repaired, permitting emergency services to access the site. Almost two dozen people remain missing, although the actual number is believed to be higher. The Indian Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert (the second-highest alert level) for further rainfall in Idukki district over the coming days, with several other districts in Kerala also affected by the warning.
Disruptions to transportation are likely in the vicinity of the incident as emergency services continue rescue and recovery efforts. Further rainfall and associated flooding, landslides, and disruption to utilities, transportation, and business are to be expected in Kerala over the near term.
Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, anticipate transportation disruptions, avoid areas directly affected by flooding and those prone to landslides, confirm road conditions before setting out, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities. Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult.
Copyright © 2024 Drum Cussac
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