15 Aug 2018 | 05:03 PM UTC
India: Cochin International Airport (Kerala) closed until August 18
Cochin International Airport (Kerala state) closed until 14:00 (local time) on August 18 due to flooding; additional flight disruptions possible in the coming days
Event
Officials from Cochin International Airport (COK) announced on Wednesday, August 15, that all flight operations through COK will be suspended until 14:00 (local time) on Saturday, August 18, due to flooding in and around the airport. The Indian Meteorological Department has forecast that heavy rains and rough seas will affect Kerala state through Saturday, August 18, and has issued red alerts for all of Kerala's 14 districts. Further flooding and associated transportation disruptions (including flight delays and cancelations) are possible in the area in the coming days.
Context
Heavy rains have caused major flooding and landslides in Kerala state since August 8; at least 67 people have died and some 100,000 others displaced.
The southwest summer monsoon season lasts from June to September and brings around 75 percent of the region's annual precipitation.
Advice
Individuals in Kerala state, and particularly those traveling via COK, are advised to keep abreast of regional weather forecasts, confirm flight reservations, contact their airline for more information, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities. In the event of flooding, remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult.
