Rain with thunder and lightning likely; special alert issued

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has informed that there is a possibility of rain in Kerala on Wednesday. The possibility of rain with thundershowers at isolated places has been predicted.

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Strong winds with a speed of 35 to 45 kmph and at times up to 55 kmph and bad weather are likely over the south Tamil Nadu coast, Gulf of Mannar and adjoining Kanyakumari region from today till December 19, informed IMD.

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 cumulonimbus cloud. Since lightning may not always be visible, do not refrain from taking such precautions.

As soon as you see the first sign of lightning, move inside a safe building immediately. Staying outdoors 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 indoors and try to avoid touching walls or floors 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 thunderstorms. Baiting and casting nets should be stopped during thunderstorms.
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Avoid flying kites.