Floods Batter Kerala, Assam, Odisha And Chhattisgarh: What To Do Before, During And After Flooding In India

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Heavy monsoon rains have triggered floods across several parts of India, disrupting normal life and prompting rescue and relief operations. As of today, 3rd August 2026, states including Kerala, Assam, Gujarat, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha have witnessed flooding or are dealing with its aftermath, while the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued heavy rainfall alerts for several other regions. Floods can develop rapidly, making preparedness and timely action essential to protect lives and property.

Whether you live in a flood-prone area or are travelling during the monsoon, knowing what to do before, during, and after a flood can make a significant difference. Here's a practical guide based on recommendations from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), India Meteorological Department (IMD), World Health Organization (WHO), and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

#WATCH | Keralam | NDRF officers use boats to conduct rescue operations amid flooding and excessive waterlogging following heavy rains in Pathanamthittas Ranni town. pic.twitter.com/wPF7Syatmo

— ANI (@ANI) August 1, 2026

What To Do Before A Flood

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Stay Informed Through Official Alerts

Keep a close watch on weather forecasts and flood advisories issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and your State Disaster Management Authority. Avoid relying on unverified information circulating on social media.

Prepare An Emergency Kit

The NDMA recommends keeping an emergency kit ready with essentials such as:

• Drinking water
• Non-perishable food
• First-aid kit
• Prescription medicines
• Flashlight and spare batteries
• Fully charged power bank
• Whistle
• Cash in small denominations
• Extra clothes and blankets
• Baby, elderly, or pet supplies, if required

Store the kit in a place that is easy to access.

Keep Important Documents Safe

Place documents such as Aadhaar, PAN card, passport, insurance papers, bank documents, and property records in waterproof pouches or containers. Keeping digital copies stored securely in the cloud can also prove useful during emergencies.

Charge Your Devices

Power outages are common during floods. Fully charge your mobile phone, laptop, and power banks before heavy rainfall begins, and save important emergency contact numbers.

Know Your Evacuation Plan

Identify the nearest relief shelter or safe location on higher ground. Discuss evacuation routes with family members so everyone knows where to go if authorities issue an evacuation order.

Move Valuables To Higher Levels

If flooding is expected, shift electrical appliances, important belongings, and valuable items to upper floors or elevated surfaces to minimise damage.

What To Do During A Flood

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Move To Higher Ground Immediately

If local authorities advise evacuation, leave without delay. The NDMA and NDRF recommend moving to higher ground or designated relief shelters instead of waiting for floodwaters to rise further.

Never Walk Or Drive Through Floodwater

One of the most important flood safety rules is to avoid entering floodwater.

According to the U.S. National Weather Service:

Just 6 inches (15 cm) of fast-moving water can knock an adult off their feet.
About 12 inches (30 cm) of rushing water can carry away most cars.
Around 2 feet (60 cm) of moving water can sweep away larger vehicles such as SUVs and trucks.

Floodwater may also hide open drains, damaged roads, sharp debris, and live electrical wires.

Stay Away From Electrical Hazards

If it is safe to do so before floodwater enters your home, switch off the main electricity supply. Never touch electrical appliances or wiring while standing in water, and stay away from fallen power lines.

Drink Only Safe Water

Floodwater can contaminate drinking water with sewage, chemicals, and harmful microorganisms. Drink bottled water, boiled water, or water treated using approved purification methods.

Keep Children Away From Floodwater

Children should never play in flooded areas, as floodwater may contain disease-causing bacteria, sharp objects, and hazardous debris.

Continue Monitoring Official Updates

Flood situations can change quickly. Follow updates from the IMD, district administration, and disaster management authorities for the latest instructions.

What To Do After A Flood

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Return Home Only When Authorities Declare It Safe

Do not enter flood-affected areas until local authorities confirm it is safe. Roads, bridges, and buildings may have been weakened by floodwaters.

Check Your Home For Damage

Inspect your house carefully for structural damage, including cracks, weakened walls, and unstable flooring. If the building appears unsafe, seek professional assistance before entering.

Avoid Electrical Accidents

Do not switch on electricity until the wiring and electrical appliances have been inspected. Wet electrical systems can pose a serious risk of electrocution.

Throw Away Contaminated Food

The CDC advises discarding any food that has come into contact with floodwater. Perishable food left without refrigeration during prolonged power outages should also be thrown away if its safety cannot be confirmed.

Clean And Disinfect Your Home

Wear rubber gloves, waterproof boots, and protective clothing while cleaning. Disinfect all surfaces that came into contact with floodwater to reduce the risk of infections.

Protect Yourself From Diseases

Floods increase the risk of waterborne and vector-borne diseases. Wash your hands regularly with soap and safe water, keep wounds covered, and seek medical attention if you experience fever, diarrhoea, or skin infections.

Eliminate Stagnant Water

After floodwaters recede, remove standing water around your home to reduce mosquito breeding and lower the risk of diseases such as dengue and malaria.

Common Flood Safety Mistakes To Avoid

• Ignoring evacuation orders.
• Walking or driving through flooded roads.
• Touching electrical equipment with wet hands.
• Drinking untreated water.
• Returning home before authorities declare it safe.
• Sharing unverified flood-related information on social media.

Emergency Numbers To Save During Floods In India

Save these important emergency numbers on your phone and keep a written copy in your emergency kit in case your device runs out of battery.

• 112 - National Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) for police, fire, and ambulance services.
• 101 - Fire and Rescue Services.
• 102 - Ambulance service (available in many states).
• 108 - Emergency ambulance and medical services (operational in most states).
• +91 9711077372 - National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) Helpline.
• 1070 - State Emergency Operations Centre (available in many states).
• 1077 - District Disaster Control Room (available in many districts).
• Your State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) - Save your state's official emergency helpline.
• Nearest Hospital - Keep the contact number of the closest government or private hospital handy.
• Local Police Station - Save your local police station's number for immediate assistance.

Tip: During a flood or any life-threatening emergency, 112 should be your first point of contact, as it is India's integrated emergency response number that connects callers to the appropriate emergency services.

Stay Prepared, Stay Safe This Monsoon

Floods can occur with little warning, but being prepared can significantly reduce the risk to you and your family. Keeping an emergency kit ready, following official weather advisories, avoiding floodwater, and waiting for authorities to declare an area safe before returning home are some of the most effective ways to stay protected. As monsoon conditions continue across several parts of India, staying informed and acting promptly can help save lives.