Relief from severe heat: Warning issued for more districts; Strong winds also likely

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Rain warnings have been issued for more days, providing relief from Kerala’s intense heat and power shortage. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has informed that various districts are likely to receive rain for four days starting tomorrow. Yellow alerts have also been issued in several districts in view of the possibility of heavy rainfall.

07/09/2026: Pathanamthitta, Idukki

18/09/2026: Idukki

19/09/2026: Malappuram, Kozhikode

20/09/2026: Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam

Yellow alerts have been declared in these districts. Isolated heavy rainfall is forecast. Heavy rain refers to rainfall of 64.5 mm to 115.5 mm within 24 hours.

The IMD has also warned that isolated places in Kerala are likely to receive thunderstorms from today until September 18, along with strong winds reaching speeds of 40–50 km/h.

Lightning safety advisory

At the first sign of lightning, immediately move indoors to a safe building. Staying in open areas increases the risk of being struck by lightning.

When strong winds and lightning are likely, keep doors and windows closed. Do not stand near doors or windows. Stay inside the building and, as far as possible, avoid touching walls or the floor.

Disconnect electrical appliances from power supply. Avoid being near electrical equipment during thunderstorms.

Avoid using telephones during lightning. Using mobile phones is considered safe.

If the sky is overcast, avoid playing outdoors or on terraces, including children.

Do not stand under trees during lightning. Do not park vehicles under trees either.

Remain inside your vehicle during lightning and do not extend your hands or feet outside. You will be relatively safe inside the vehicle. Avoid travelling on bicycles,

motorcycles, tractors and similar vehicles during lightning, and seek shelter in a safe building until the lightning has passed.

When dark rain clouds appear, do not go to the terrace or courtyard to collect clothes during lightning.

Secure objects that could be blown over or carried away by strong winds.

Avoid bathing during lightning. Also avoid collecting water from taps, as lightning-related electrical currents may travel through pipes.

Do not enter water bodies for fishing or bathing during lightning. As soon as dark clouds begin to appear, stop activities such as fishing and boating and try to reach the nearest shore immediately. Do not stand on the deck of a boat during lightning. Stop activities such as angling and casting fishing nets during thunderstorms.

Avoid flying kites.