People in five districts of Kerala alerted; very heavy rains predicted

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has informed that there is a possibility of heavy rains in the state today. An orange alert has been issued in five districts and yellow alert in nine districts. Orange alert is in Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Malappuram and Wayanad. Along with heavy rains in isolated places, winds gusting up to 50 kmph are also possible.

The rains in the state are presently continuing due to the influence of a cyclonic circulation over southwest Rajasthan. By tomorrow, a cyclonic circulation is likely to form over the northwest Bay of Bengal and the West Bengal and Bangladesh coasts and it is likely to strengthen into a low-pressure area.

There is a possibility of sea waves in the coastal areas of Kannur and Kasaragod districts and people living in the coastal areas have been warned to be vigilant. The Mullaperiyar dam may be opened today. As part of the preparations, 853 families have been evacuated.

Thunderstorm warning instructions

• Immediately move inside a safe building after seeing the first sign of thunderstorms.
• Do not go to the terrace or yard to get clothes when you see a thunderstorm.
• Disconnect the power supply of household appliances.
• Keep windows and doors closed.
• Do not touch or be near metal objects. Also avoid being near electrical appliances.
• Try to avoid using the telephone.
• Avoid bathing during thunderstorms.
• Sit indoors as much as possible without touching the walls or floor.
• It is dangerous to sit on a terrace or other high places or on a tree branch during a thunderstorm.
• If you are outside your home, do not stand under trees.
• If you are inside a vehicle, stop in an open area and do not touch metal parts.
• Do not step into a body of water during a thunderstorm.
• Do not fly a kite.
• If you are in an open area, curl up like a ball with your feet together and your head between your knees.
• Don’t go to take the wet clothes lying outside during a thunderstorm.

Lightning rods can be installed on buildings to protect them from lightning. Surge protectors can be installed to protect electrical equipment.

Lightning can cause burns, loss of vision or hearing, or a heart attack. It should be understood that there is no electric current in the body of a person struck by lightning. Therefore, do not hesitate to provide first aid to a person struck by lightning. The first thirty seconds of a lightning strike are the golden moments to save a life. Do not tie up pets in open areas during this time. Do not go out into the open areas when rain clouds are visible to untie them and tie them up safely.