IMD predicts thunderstorms with rain; Weather in Kerala to change in next five days

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has said that there is a possibility of rain in Kerala for the next five days. Rain with thunderstorms is predicted today. The IMD has informed that the existing very severe low pressure in the northeast Arabian Sea has the possibility of developing into a severe cyclone.

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 time they start seeing the thundercloud. Since lightning may not always be visible, do not refrain from taking such precautions.

• Immediately move inside 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 periods of strong winds and thunderstorms. Stay away from doors and windows. Stay inside the building and try not to touch the walls or floor as much as possible.

• Disconnect electrical appliances. Avoid being near electrical appliances during a thunderstorm.

• Avoid using the telephone during a thunderstorm. It is okay to use a mobile phone.

• If the weather is cloudy, avoid playing outdoors and on terraces, including with children.

• Do not stand under trees during a thunderstorm. Do not park vehicles under trees.

• Stay inside the vehicle during a thunderstorm. Do not put your arms or legs out. You will be safer inside the 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 thunderstorm.

• Tie down objects that may fall over in the wind.

• Avoid bathing during a thunderstorm. Avoid collecting water from taps. Electricity from lightning can travel through pipes.

• Do not go fishing or bathing in water during a thunderstorm. As soon as you see dark 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 a thunderstorm.
  
• Avoid flying kites.