PATHANAMTHITTA: Kerala is currently battling severe flash floods and landslides that began in late July 2026, following extreme, localized precipitation. The disaster has claimed at least 15 confirmed lives, with seven individuals still reported missing. Kerala floods have left devastating impact on the state.
The severe weather event was triggered by an offshore trough and localized atmospheric depressions, which combined to produce extreme rainfall after a prolonged dry period that saw a 34% monsoon rainfall deficit in June and July.
“Near-Cloudburst Conditions” Worsened Kerala Floods
The situation escalated rapidly on August 1, 2026, when parts of central and southern Kerala experienced “near-cloudburst conditions,” with some areas receiving over 300 mm of rain in a single day.
The intense rainfall has caused rivers such as the Pamba, Manimala, and Meenachil to overflow, flooding major towns and blocking crucial transport routes. While floodwaters have begun receding in upper reaches, low-lying areas in upper Kuttanad, including parts of Thiruvalla and Aranmula, remain underwater due to heavy runoff flowing downstream.
In Pathanamthitta, where the relentless rain continued for a third consecutive day on August 3, normal life has been severely disrupted. Authorities report that 5,940 people are currently taking shelter in relief camps across the district. Fire and Rescue Services have evacuated 3,627 people from the hardest-hit areas, bolstered by 160 personnel from other districts and 75 Civil Defence volunteers.
ALSO READ: India Wins Big In Commonwealth Games, Propels To 4th Position With Golds In Boxing, Judo & Athletics
Rescue teams are actively coordinating with the District Disaster Management Authority to supply food, water, and medicine to both those in camps and those trapped in their homes.