Kerala rains: Death toll mounted to 21

IMD predicted the intense spell of rainfall activity over Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu and Puducherry is likely to reduce from today

Heavy rains in Kerala, yellow alert sounded in 11 districts

Uprooting of trees and water-logging of low-lying areas were also reported across the state

'These districts are likely to get extremely heavy rainfall of over 240 mm in 24 hours and may experience landslides,' an IMD release said.

The weatherman has also issued orange alert in Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur and Malappuram till July 25.

At least 488 people have died in Kerala due to the rains and floods this monsoon, which hit 14 districts of the state.

Yellow alert issued for Idukki and Wayanad districts for both Sept 25 and 26. Heavy rainfall between 64.4mm to 124.4mm has been predicted.

Vijayan made the appeal at his first public function in New York early Friday after completion of his medical treatment.

The North West Delhi MP has urged the public to make this demand.

Kerala had sought 1.18 lakh tonnes of rice free of cost from the centre for being distributed to those affected by the deluge.

Schools and colleges were also cleaned up and sanitised as flood waters had entered them, destroying books and furniture.