Down to earth: An ariel view of the flooded Cochin International Airport on Thursday. | Photo Credit: Thulasi Kakkat more-in The alerts to the possible rise in water levels in different parts of the district triggered panic calls and SOS messages from those stranded in multi-dwelling units and marooned houses. While those living in single-storey buildings located in the flood zones either moved to rescue camps or sought refuge in the houses of friends and relatives, those occupying multi-storey buildings moved to higher floors. Some kind-hearted residents opened the doors of their homes for the neighbours, whose houses were flooded. Anticipating a further rise in water level and possible flooding of their dwelling places, several residents moved utensils, beds, cloths, drinking water, food, and medicines upstairs as a precautionary measure. It was a tough time for the sick and the aged, as not much help was available for them. Many had to find their own ways to tide over the crisis, as there was none in the district who was left untouched by the natural calamity. Several aged and sick persons chose to move out to hotels and stay indoors, fearing that they might get trapped in their marooned houses. Meanwhile, panic-buying by scared residents left grocery and vegetable shelves at shops empty by evening. Almost all petrol pumps witnessed heavy customer turnout during the day, as vehicle owners resorted to panic-buying, fearing that they might have to drive to safety any moment. Good Samaritans turned up at rescue camps with packets of food, medicine and clothing for the affected. Civic representatives and activists could be seen actively engaged in rescue work and sourcing the required materials for those in the camps.

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