Swell waves have inundated coastal areas in central and southern districts of Kerala, causing concern among coastal communities and prompting district-level disaster management authorities to heighten their vigilance.
Phenomenon of ‘Kallakkadal’:
- Swell waves, locally known as ‘Kallakkadal,’ flooded beaches in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha, and Thrissur districts.
- ‘Kallakkadal events’ involve the surge of sea water into the land, leading to inundation.
Impact on Coastal Regions:
- Coastal areas in Thiruvananthapuram district, including Pozhiyoor, Puthiyathura, Poovar, Anchuthengu, and Adimalathura, were severely affected.
- Families in some regions had to temporarily relocate.
- The fishing community noted the unusual occurrence for this time of year.
Response and Measures Taken:
- District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMA) held urgent meetings to address the situation.
- Travel to coastal tourism hubs was prohibited for three days.
- Tourism activities in coastal areas were temporarily banned.
- Medical officers ensured the availability of first aid kits and life-saving medicines.
- Relief camps were prepared, if required.
District-wise Response:
- In Kollam district, steps were taken to open camps, and fishing boats were advised to exercise caution.
- Alappuzha witnessed high swell waves affecting various coastal stretches.
- In Thrissur district, Perinjanam reported swell waves causing damage to houses.
Scientific Context and Warning:
- ‘Kallakkadal’ is recognized by UNESCO as a term for scientific use.
- Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) warned of rough seas along the Kerala coast.
Community Advisory:
- Coastal communities were urged to heed official warnings and relocate if necessary.
- Precautions were advised to secure fishing boats and equipment, and beach visits were discouraged.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What is the local term used for swell waves in Kerala?
a) Swellakadal
b) Kallakkadal
c) Coastalakkadal
d) Surging Waves
Answer: b) Kallakkadal - Which districts in Kerala were affected by the swell waves?
a) Northern districts
b) Eastern districts
c) Central and southern districts
d) Coastal districts only
Answer: c) Central and southern districts - What precautionary measure was taken by the District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMA)?
a) Issuing fishing permits
b) Temporarily banning tourism activities
c) Promoting beach visits
d) Conducting fishing competitions
Answer: b) Temporarily banning tourism activities - What warning was issued by the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS)?
a) Rough seas due to high period swell waves
b) Calm seas for the next week
c) Enhanced beach safety measures
d) Improved fishing conditions
Answer: a) Rough seas due to high period swell waves - What advice was given to coastal communities?
a) Ignore official warnings
b) Move to safer locations if necessary
c) Engage in water sports
d) Leave fishing boats unsecured
Answer: b) Move to safer locations if necessary