ECHO Daily Flash

published on 16/08/2018

The flood situation in Kerala State has worsened. Media reports indicate that this are the worst floods since 1924. As the Indian Meteorological Service predicts more rains until 19 August, the situation is likely to further deteriorate.
All 14 districts have been put on red alert with 35 dams open and all rivers, from Kasaragod in the north to Thiruvananthapuram in the south, are far beyond alert levels.
According to media reports, the death toll rose to 73. 25 people lost their lives on 15 August alone. Approximately 20 million people have been reportedly affected. Landslides are reported in different parts of the state. So far, more than 150 000 people have been rescued and lodged in 1 068 relief camps across the state.
Kochi airport operations have been suspended until 18 August. The public transport system has collapsed in many parts of central Kerala. Power supply, communication systems and distribution of drinking water have also been disrupted in various parts of the state.
The Indian army, navy, air force and the National Disaster Response Forces (NDRF) have been deployed for search and rescue operations. Additional deployments are being considered as the situation is worsening.