Thiruvananthapuram: Torrential rains have forced the closure of all educational institutions today (Friday) in the northern Kerala districts of Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod, as the region grapples with intense weather conditions.
In Wayanad, the District Collector announced that all schools, colleges, professional institutions, religious study centres, anganwadis, and tuition centres will remain shut, excluding residential educational institutions. Examinations scheduled earlier will proceed as planned.
Kasaragod has followed suit, declaring a holiday for all educational establishments, including professional colleges, Kendriya Vidyalayas, madrasas, tuition centres, anganwadis, and special coaching classes. Exams will be held without any changes to the timetable.
Kannur district has also suspended operations in schools, tuition centres, anganwadis, and religious study centres. However, previously scheduled exams will continue without disruption.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Red Alert for Kasaragod, Kannur, and Wayanad, warning of extremely heavy rainfall today. A strong low-pressure system over southeastern Uttar Pradesh is said to be driving the intensified monsoon activity in Kerala.
According to IMD forecasts, widespread rain is likely to lash the state over the next five days, with extremely heavy rainfall expected on July 19 and 20, and very heavy rain likely to continue through July 21.
Adding to the risk, strong winds with speeds of 40–50 km/h, gusting up to 60 km/h, are expected in some areas. The authorities have also banned fishing activities along the Kerala coast due to rough sea conditions.
