Summer Rain, Strong Winds Wreak Havoc Across Kerala

Thiruvananthapuram: Heavy summer rain accompanied by strong winds has lashed several parts of Kerala, especially the highlands, causing widespread damage to homes, roads and power infrastructure, officials said on Wednesday. Uprooted trees and downed power lines disrupted daily life in various districts, electricity was cut and traffic came to a halt.

Marine erosion and lightning-induced incidents added to the devastation in different parts of the state.

Severe sea erosion was reported at Pozhiyoor in Thiruvananthapuram district, where rough sea conditions damaged roads and submerged many houses.

Lightning struck the second floor of a house in Punalur in Kollam district.

Ernakulam district suffered extensive damage due to heavy rain and high winds; Around 10 houses were partially damaged in various taluks, especially Kothamangalam, Muvattupuzha and Tripunithura.

Four houses were partially damaged in Kothamangalam taluk, while two houses were damaged in Muvattupuzha taluk, Kochi city limits and Tripunithura, officials said.

Due to strong winds, tree branches fell on a car parked near Tripunithura Metro station.

In Velloorkunnam village of Muvattupuzha taluk, an uprooted tree fell on the road due to strong winds and traffic was disrupted for a while. Fire and Rescue Services personnel then removed the tree and restored traffic flow, area officials said.

Officials also reported that the roof of a vehicle showroom building in Muvattupuzha collapsed due to rain and wind, damaging many vehicles parked there.

Authorities warned that adverse weather conditions may continue in the coming days and called on citizens to be careful.

It was also advised not to travel to high areas at night due to possible landslides, and residents were asked to stay indoors during lightning and avoid open areas and tall trees.