Rain with thunderstorms predicted; four districts on special alert

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has informed that there is a possibility of rain in the state for the next five days. The cyclonic circulation over and near Kanyakumari Sea has intensified into a low-pressure area over Kanyakumari Sea, Sri Lanka and southwest Bay of Bengal. It is likely to move north-northwestwards in the next 24 hours and intensify further into a depression and then intensify further into depression in the next 24 hours.

The low-pressure area over Malaysia and the Strait of Malacca has intensified into a deep depression. It is likely to move west-northwestwards in the next 48 hours and intensify further. In this situation, the IMD has informed that there is a possibility of light/medium rain in Kerala for the next five days.

A yellow alert has been issued in various districts. Thiruvananthapuram is on yellow alert today. Yellow alert has been sounded for Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam and Pathanamthitta tomorrow. Isolated heavy rain is expected. Heavy rain is defined as rainfall of 64.5 mm to 115.5 mm in 24 hours. There are chances for thunderstorms till November 26.

Alert issued
Thunderstorms are dangerous. They can cause great damage to human and animal life, 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 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 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 safe 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.