Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 14 (UNI) The death toll in rain-related incidents rose to 102 in Kerala even as 37 people are still missing following torrential rains, floods and landslides in various districts since August eight in the state.
As many as 1,77,335 people from 55,475 families are now staying in 1,094 relief camps in various districts, even as several returned to their homes after water receded in their places, according to the official sources here on Wednesday.
Sources said 4 people died in Alappuzha district, 2 each in Kottayam and Kasaragod districts, 5 in Idukki, 8 in Thrissur, 42 in Malappuram, 17 in Kozhikode, 12 in Wayanad, 1 in Palakkad and 9 in Kannur districts till Wednesday evening.
As many as 37 people -- 29 from Malappuram and 7 from Wayanad and 1 from Kottayam -- are still missing, it added.
Strong winds from northwesterly direction speed reaching 45-55 kmph is likely along and off Kerala coast, for the next 24 hours valid from 0000 hrs of August 15. Fishermen are advised not to venture into the sea.
Sources said 1,060 houses were fully damaged and 11,286 houses have been partially damaged in the floods.
Meanwhile, five persons were arrested and 32 cases have been registered against those who circulated fake news creating panic among people through social media on floods in the state till this day.
A detailed probe is being initiated by the Cyber Cell, the Cyberdom and the High-tech Cell in this regard, sources said.
Meanwhile, heavy rainfall amounting 20 cm has been predicted in Malappuram, Kozhikode and Kannur districts on Thursday. About 7-11 cm rainfall is predicted in Wayanad and Kasaragod districts on Thursday.
Neyyar dam and Aruvikkara dam in Thiruvananthapuram were opened to discharge excess water due to heavy rains in the catchment areas. Red alert was issued in Malappuram and Kozhikode districts on Wednesday.
UNI DS GK 2332