Rain alert on voting day, don’t forget to carry your umbrella

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has informed a possibility of rain in Kerala today. It has warned that there is a possibility of rain with thunder and lightning in isolated places in the state from today to April 11.

Alert issued
Thunder and lightning 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.

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 lightning. Do not stand near doors and windows. Stay inside the building and try not to touch the walls or floor as much as possible.

Disconnect the power supply of household appliances. Avoid being close to 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 and legs out. You will be safe inside the vehicle. Avoid traveling in vehicles such as bicycles, bikes, and tractors 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 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. Stop fishing and casting nets during a thunderstorm.

Avoid flying kites.