The water level at the Idukki dam in Kerala touched 2,395 feet on Monday night, prompting the authorities to issue an orange alert. Authorities have asked all those living along the banks of Periyar River to stay alert.

Orange alert implies that the present condition has the capacity to significantly impact the people in the affected areas. When the level reaches 2,397 ft, there is a possibility of water being released on a trial basis for one or two hours, Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) sources said. When the water level touches 2,399 ft, a red alert will be issued. People will be warned about the impending opening and only 24 hours after the warning, the shutters will be opened.

With the water level in the Idukki dam nearing its maximum, the Kerala government has put the Army, Navy, Airforce and coast guard on alert to meet any eventuality in case water is released.

A team of National Disaster Management Force has already been deployed in Ernakulam and Thrissur and another team in Idukki.