Thiruvananthapuram, October 22 (IANS). The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has declared holiday for Wednesday in all educational institutions in Palakkad, Malappuram, Idukki and Pathanamthitta districts in view of the warning of heavy rain in Kerala. Red alert has been issued in Malappuram, Palakkad and Idukki, while orange alert is in effect in Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Kozhikode and Wayanad and yellow alert in the remaining districts. According to IMD, there is a possibility of heavy to very heavy rain in the state for the next few days. The impact of rain is likely to be severe, especially in North and Central Kerala. This holiday will also apply to Anganwadis, Madrassas and teaching centers in Malappuram and Pathanamthitta. However, this holiday is not applicable to residential schools and colleges. There was also no change in the already scheduled examinations or other academic activities. Keeping security in mind, the Idukki district administration has suspended all water recreational activities like sailing, kayaking, rafting and coracle rides till the red alert is lifted. In addition, all tourism and adventure activities including trekking in hilly and landslide areas are also banned. The administration appealed to people to stay away from rivers, reservoirs and hilly areas. Local administration and disaster management teams are on high alert. In light of the danger of landslides and floods, people living in low-lying areas have been advised to move to safe places. The Meteorological Department has warned fishermen not to venture into the sea as there is a possibility of heavy rain along with strong winds in the coastal areas. Post-monsoon rains in Kerala have affected life in many areas for the past few days. There were reports of waterlogging on roads, traffic disruption and disruption in power supply. The state government has asked people to stay alert and get in touch with the local administration in case of emergency. The Disaster Management Department has issued helpline numbers so that people can seek help if needed. –IANS AX/AS
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