Following the prediction of more rain in Kerala and ongoing rescue efforts, a two-day mourning period has been declared.
Severe landslides caused by heavy rainfall hit southern India, resulting in numerous fatalities and hundreds of injuries, as reported by local media.
A significant landslide in the Wayanad district of Kerala destroyed many homes. Helicopters and the Indian army have been deployed to assist in rescue operations.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan stated in a press conference that 93 bodies have been recovered, with 128 individuals receiving medical treatment for their injuries.
He cautioned that these numbers are likely to rise as rescue operations continue.
At least 44 people lost their lives in the landslides, while 250 others were rescued and relocated to temporary shelter camps, according to Kerala Cabinet Minister M. B. Rajesh.
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Mr. Vijayan announced a two-day state-wide mourning period commencing on July 30, during which the national flag will be flown at half-mast and all public events and festivities will be postponed.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his distress over the landslides in parts of Wayanad and assured all possible support from the national government after speaking with Mr. Vijayan.
India’s meteorological department has issued an alert for Kerala due to continuous heavy rains. Schools were closed in certain areas on Tuesday, with more rain expected throughout the day.
The Indian Meteorological Department reported intense rainfall in the northern and central regions of the state, with the Wayanad district receiving up to 28 centimeters (11 inches) of rain in the past 24 hours.
Kerala, a popular tourist destination in India, is prone to heavy rains, flooding, and landslides. In 2018, nearly 500 individuals lost their lives in the state due to severe flooding.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
