Rescuers at a spot after a landslide in Wayanad, southern Kerala state, India, July 30, 2024. (Photo: National Disaster Response Force)

Heavy rains since Monday have caused hillsides to collapse, leading to mudflows and landslides that have affected nearly 350 households, primarily on tea and cardamom plantations. Most of the victims were tea plantation workers and their families who were sleeping in temporary shelters when the landslides occurred.

Local authorities reported that, in addition to the 106 fatalities, 128 people were injured, and many others were missing. Rescue efforts continue, but rescuers face significant challenges in reaching the landslide and flash flood sites due to destroyed roads, leaving many residential areas completely isolated.