Attention those stepping out: Weather to change in next five days; alert issued

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted rain in Kerala over the next five days and issued yellow alerts for several districts. A yellow alert has been issued for Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam and Idukki on October 15 and on October 16 in Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode and Wayanad. On October 17, it will remain in effect in Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad and Malappuram. Isolated spells of heavy rainfall have been predicted. Heavy rainfall refers to rainfall measuring between 64.5 mm and 115.5 mm within 24 hours.

The IMD has also warned that isolated parts of Kerala are likely to experience rain accompanied by thunderstorms today (Oct 13) and tomorrow. Thunderstorms and strong winds reaching speeds of 40–50 kmph are likely between October 15 and 17.

Safety guidelines
Lightning is dangerous and can cause significant damage to human and animal life, electricity and communication networks, and household appliances connected to electrical wiring. The public is advised to take the following precautions as soon as dark clouds begin to appear. Since lightning may not always be visible, people should not neglect these precautions.

Move indoors immediately at the first sign of lightning, take shelter inside a safe building. Remaining in open areas increases the risk of being struck by lightning.

Keep doors and windows closed. When strong winds and thunderstorms are likely, close all doors and windows. Avoid standing near them. Remain indoors and try to minimise contact with walls and floors.

Disconnect electrical appliances. Unplug electrical appliances and avoid contact with electrical equipment during thunderstorms.

Avoid using landline telephones. Do not use a telephone connected to a landline during a thunderstorm. Mobile phones can be used.

Avoid outdoor activities. If the sky is overcast, do not allow children or others to play in open spaces or on terraces.

Stay away from trees. Do not stand under trees during thunderstorms or park vehicles beneath them.

Take shelter while travelling. If you are inside a vehicle during a thunderstorm, remain inside and do not extend your hands or feet outside. A closed vehicle offers protection.

Avoid travelling on bicycles, motorcycles, tractors and similar vehicles during thunderstorms. Take shelter in a safe building until the lightning has stopped.

Do not go outside to collect clothes. If dark rain clouds appear, do not go to the terrace or courtyard to bring in clothes while lightning is occurring.

Secure loose objects. Fasten objects that could be blown away or toppled by strong winds.

Avoid bathing. Do not bathe or collect water from taps during thunderstorms, as lightning-related electrical currents may travel through plumbing.

Stay out of water bodies. Do not go fishing or swimming in water bodies during thunderstorms. As soon as dark clouds begin to gather, stop fishing, boating and similar activities and head towards the nearest shore. Do not stand on a boat's deck during a thunderstorm. Stop angling and casting nets until the lightning has passed.

Avoid flying kites. Do not fly kites during thunderstorms or when lightning is likely.