The Indian state of Kerala is facing the worst floods it has seen in 100 years.
The chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan has declared a state of emergency and is keeping the public updated through social media throughout his relief efforts.
Extreme levels of rainfall have been coming in torrents on the southern state, causing out of control flooding that has began to spread across the country.
“Kerala is facing its worst flood in 100 years. 80 dams opened, 324 lives lost and 223,139 people are in about 1500+ relief camps,” the chief minister said in his latest update.
Kerala is facing its worst flood in 100 years. 80 dams opened, 324 lives lost and 223139 people are in about 1500+ relief camps. Your help can rebuild the lives of the affected. Donate to https://t.co/FjYFEdOsyl #StandWithKerala.
— CMO Kerala (@CMOKerala) August 17, 2018
The state is deploying every resource they have to rescue thousands who are stranded in their villages from the monsoon’s high water levels and resulting landslides.
The devastation is catastrophic, but the rest of the country is sending support in any way that they can.
The prime minister of India has travelled to Kerala to review and aid in rescue operations. He commended his people for their ‘fighting spirit’ and encouraged them to press on until help arrives.
“I salute the people of Kerala for their fighting spirit. I compliment the authorities for their efforts in this adverse situation.
“I would also like to appreciate the wide support and solidarity from people across India towards Kerala during this unprecedented situation,” he encouraged.
I salute the people of Kerala for their fighting spirit. I compliment the authorities for their efforts in this adverse situation.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 18, 2018
I would also like to appreciate the wide support and solidarity from people across India towards Kerala during this unprecedented situation.
The state’s chief minister is also remaining positive in an effort to remind Kerala of its limitless strength and ability to prevail.
He presses flood victims to focus on the positive progress rescuers have made thus far.
“Rescue operations are progressing well even in an inclement weather. A total of 82,442 rescues were made today. 3,14,391 people from 70,085 families are safe in 2094 camps across the State.”
Update: Rescue operations are progressing well even in an inclement weather. A total of 82,442 rescues were made today. 3,14,391 people from 70,085 families are safe in 2094 camps across the State. #KeralaFloods pic.twitter.com/puHkqQ94UQ
— CMO Kerala (@CMOKerala) August 17, 2018
The chief minister encourages all of those who would like to help to donate to the state's relief fund here.
“Your help can rebuild the lives of the affected,” he explained.
Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with the people of Kerala, and we hope that rescue missions remain successful as they continue to save lives across the state.
