Heavy rain likely in state; Alert issued to seven districts, monsoon to arrive early 

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy rains in the state today. A yellow alert has been issued in seven districts namely Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki and Ernakulam.

The IMD predicts that rain will continue in the coming days. A yellow alert has been issued in Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod on Monday. There is a possibility of strong winds and thunderstorms along with the rain. This time the monsoon is expected to arrive early. The IMD has informed that the south and west monsoon may arrive in Kerala by May 26. The forecast is that it may arrive four days early or four days late. The monsoon usually begins in Kerala on June 1. Last year, the monsoon hit the Kerala coast on May 24.

Alert issued Thunderstorms are dangerous. They cause great damage to human and animal lives, electrical and communication networks, and household appliances connected to electrical conductors. Therefore, the public should take the following precautions from the moment they start seeing the thundercloud. Since lightning may not always be visible, do not refrain from taking such precautions.

At the first sign of a thunderstorm, move into a safe building as soon as possible. Remaining in open areas increases the risk of being struck by lightning. Keep windows and doors closed during periods of strong winds and lightning. Stay away from doors and windows. Stay inside the building and try not to touch the walls or floor as much as possible. Unplug household appliances. Avoid being near electrical appliances during a thunderstorm. Avoid using the telephone during a thunderstorm. It is safe to use a mobile phone. Avoid playing outdoors and on terraces, including with children, if the weather is cloudy. Do not stand under trees during a thunderstorm. Do not park vehicles under trees. Stay inside your vehicle during a thunderstorm. Do not put your arms or legs out. You will be safer inside your vehicle. Avoid riding bicycles, bikes, tractors, etc. during thunderstorms and seek shelter in a safe building until the thunderstorm ends. Do not go to the terrace or yard to get clothes when you see a rainstorm. Tie down objects that may fall in the wind. Avoid bathing during thunderstorms. Avoid collecting water from taps. Electricity caused by lightning can travel through pipes. Do not go fishing or bathing in water during thunderstorms. As soon as you see the clouds, stop fishing and boating and try to reach the nearest shore immediately. Do not stand on the deck of a boat during a thunderstorm. Baiting and casting nets should be stopped during thunderstorms. Avoid flying kites.