IMD predicts isolated rain and thunderstorms across Kerala; high heat alerts continue

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast a shift in Kerala's weather pattern over the next five days, offering a slight reprieve from the intense heat with scattered summer showers.

Key Highlights:

• Rain Forecast: Light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning is expected at isolated places across the state today and through the weekend.
• Heat Wave Alert: Despite the rain, a Yellow Alert remains in effect for high temperatures. Palakkad continues to sizzle, having crossed the 40°C mark, with Kollam and Thrissur recording significantly high temperatures.
• Humidity Factor: "Hot and Humid" warnings are active for most districts. The high moisture levels are expected to make the "real feel" temperature significantly higher than the recorded figures, particularly in coastal areas.

District-Wise Outlook:

Across the state, the weather remains a mix of extremes. Palakkad and Kollam are facing the brunt of the heat with temperatures soaring 2°C to 4°C above the seasonal average. Meanwhile, Thiruvananthapuram and Pathanamthitta are likely to see localised evening thundershowers. In the northern districts like Kozhikode and Kannur, the weather will remain predominantly dry and oppressive due to high humidity.

Caution

Lightning is dangerous. It can 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 first see the thunderstorm. Since lightning may not always be visible, do not refrain from taking such precautions.

• Move to a safe building after seeing the first sign of lightning. Remaining in open areas increases the risk of being struck by lightning.
• Keep windows and doors closed during times of strong winds and thunderstorms. Do not stand near doors and windows. Stay inside the building and try to avoid touching the walls or floor as much as possible.
• Disconnect household appliances from the power supply. Avoid proximity to 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 a thunderstorm 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 a thunderstorm. Avoid collecting water from taps. Electricity caused by lightning can travel through pipes.
• Do not go fishing or bathing in water bodies during a thunderstorm. As soon as you see the clouds, stop fishing, boating, etc., and try to reach the nearest shore immediately. Do not stand on the deck of the boat during a thunderstorm. Stop fishing and casting nets during a thunderstorm.
• Avoid flying kites.