Severe low-pressure in 48 hours; Special alert to people in three districts of Kerala 

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has said that light to moderate rains is likely in Kerala for the next five days. Isolated heavy rains are likely in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam and Pathanamthitta today. A yellow alert has been issued in all three districts.

A strong low pressure area is present over southwest Bay of Bengal, southeast Sri Lanka and the Indian Ocean near the equator. It is likely to move north-north-westwards in the next 24 hours and strengthen into a severe low pressure area. It will further strengthen in the next 48 hours. It is likely to move north-north-westwards and move towards southwest Bay of Bengal via north Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coast.

Alert issued
Those living in areas prone to landslides, mudslides, and mountain floods should move to safer places as per the instructions of the authorities.

Those living in riverbanks and downstream areas of dams should also move to safer places as per the instructions of the authorities, anticipating the danger.

Those living in disaster-prone areas should definitely ensure that camps are open in their area and move there during the day. For this, local government and revenue authorities can be contacted.

Those living in unsecured houses and those living in houses with weak roofs should be especially careful as there is a possibility of strong winds. Those who foresee a dangerous situation should contact the authorities and move to safer places as part of safety precautions.

You should also be aware of the dangers that may arise from trees falling and posts collapsing in the wind. The precautionary measures to be taken in the event of strong winds issued by the State Disaster Management Authority are available at the link https://sdma.kerala.gov.in/windwarning/

During heavy rains, it is not permissible to cross rivers, bathe in rivers or other water bodies, go fishing or for other purposes.

It is not permissible to climb over bridges above water bodies to see the view, take selfies or stand in groups.

Avoid unnecessary travel completely during heavy rains. Excursions to waterfalls, water bodies and hilly areas should be avoided completely until the rain warning is lifted.

Exercise special caution when traveling on roads adjacent to water bodies. Exercise caution on roads under maintenance. The possibility of road accidents should be expected to increase in the event of heavy rains. Do not attempt to drive in areas where water bodies are overflowing.

Trees/posts/boards, walls etc. that are in danger in private and public places should be secured and trees should be pruned. Dangers should be brought to the attention of the authorities.

Those in disaster prone areas should immediately prepare an emergency kit. Instructions for preparing the kit can be found at the link https://sdma.kerala.gov.in/.../2020/07/Emergency-Kit.pdf