Thunderstorm warning issued in Kerala; Thiruvananthapuram braces for heavy rain in coming hours

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Indian Meteorological Department predicted the chances of isolated thunderstorms and strong winds gusting to 40 to 50 kilometres per hour in the state today. There is a possibility of isolated thunderstorms and strong winds gusting to 30 to 40 kilometres per hour on the 19th and 20th of April.

Light/moderate rain with thundershowers and strong winds gusting up to 40 kmph are likely at isolated places in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram and Kozhikode districts in the next three hours.

Lightning strikes are dangerous. They 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 when they first see a thunderstorm. Since lightning may not always be visible, do not refrain from taking such precautions.

• At the first sign of lightning, move inside a safe building. Remaining in open areas increases the risk of being struck by lightning.

• Keep windows and doors closed during periods of high winds and lightning. Stay away from doors and windows. Stay inside the building and avoid touching the walls or floor as much as possible.

• Disconnect electrical appliances from the power supply. Avoid proximity to electrical appliances during thunderstorms.

• Avoid using the telephone during a thunderstorm. It is safe to use a mobile phone.