Deadly Landslides in India Claim Over 250 Lives

The southern Indian state of Kerala is grappling with one of the most devastating tragedies in recent history. Intense rains early Tuesday triggered landslides in picturesque villages on the hillsides of Wayanad district, resulting in the deaths of more than 250 people. Hundreds of residents are reported missing, with many trapped under the debris of homes swept away by mudflows.

Wayanad is a hilly region in northern Kerala known for its lush green forests, hills, and waterfalls. The area is home to a diverse mix of cultures, including tribal communities, with a population exceeding 800,000.

The torrential downpours—recording 572 mm of rainfall over 48 hours—led to river overflow and flooding in low-lying areas. On July 30, the heavy rains caused landslides, unleashing torrents of mud, water, and boulders down the slopes. Three major waves of destruction occurred during the night when people were asleep, leaving little chance for escape.

The landslides had catastrophic consequences: most homes were destroyed or buried under the debris, trees were uprooted, and vehicles were swept away by raging currents. Several villages became completely cut off from areas where help could arrive, with all roads blocked.

In recent years, India has frequently suffered from cyclones, heavy rains, floods, and droughts, and experts attribute these extreme weather conditions to climate change.

Rescue operations involve the army, police, rescuers, firefighters, and medical personnel, along with volunteers. Approximately 500 people have been rescued, and over 3,000 residents have been evacuated to safe areas. Search efforts for survivors are ongoing.

Forecasts indicate that more rainfall is expected in Wayanad and surrounding regions in the coming days. Experts believe that the tragedy could have been prevented: four years ago, Kerala's disaster management authority recommended the urgent relocation of 4,000 families living on the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats in Wayanad due to the area's vulnerability to landslides. The hills are part of the "Camel Back" mountain range, classified as a landslide-prone zone.