T’puram: Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has defended its weather alert system amid criticism that a red alert was issued too late during the ongoing heavy rain spell.KSDMA secretary Shekhar Kuriakose said rain warnings are issued only after extensive scientific analysis and stressed that there had been no lapse in the forecasting process.Kuriakose said monsoon preparedness should not depend solely on colour-coded weather alerts. He explained that it is standard practice to initially issue an orange alert and later upgrade it if weather conditions warrant. Rain forecasts are revised frequently, sometimes every three hours, based on updated radar and meteorological data. He was responding to the criticisms that KSDMA failed in providing red alert in Pathanamthitta.Kuriakose added that the intensity of the current spell of rain is expected to ease, although isolated places may continue to receive heavy showers. However, accurately predicting the exact locations of such intense rain remains a scientific challenge. According to the latest assessment, more widespread heavy rain is likely to happen around Friday.Meanwhile, revenue minister A P Anilkumar clarified that the state govt has no role in issuing weather alerts, which are based on scientific inputs from the concerned agencies. He said the govt maintains preparedness at all times and does not rely solely on alert classifications while planning disaster response.The minister added that although rain continues in parts of the state, the overall situation has improved. The previous night passed without major difficulties, and floodwaters have begun to recede in several areas.Addressing concerns over dam safety, Anilkumar said there is no reason for alarm. He noted that until a few days ago, reservoir levels were significantly below the normal levels expected for this time of the year. While water levels have risen following recent rain, they have not increased to a level that warrants concern. He said the govt is closely monitoring reservoir levels across the state.
