An Appraisal of Kerala Flood-2019

Kerala experienced extremely heavy rainfall from 8th to 11th August 2019, which caused a widespread flood throughout the state and disrupted thousands of lives as well as a substantial amount of property. The novel approach of utilising the observed and merged satellite rainfall products along with remotely sensed optical and microwave images was applied to monitor the event. The results indicated vast inundation in Wayanad, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Malappuram, Palakkad, and Alappuzha districts on 10th August. A departure of 217% from normal rainfall for Palakkad and 123% for the whole state in the month of August were observed. The synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and optical datasets were successfully used to generate flood extent maps which can be advantageous for planners and governing bodies to control flood incidents over the region.

Automated summary

Kerala witnessed severe flooding from 8th to 11th August 2019, with extensive damage to lives and property. The use of satellite rainfall products and remote sensing images proved effective in generating flood extent maps, which can be valuable for flood control efforts.