Strong winds along with rain; six districts warned

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that isolated heavy rains are likely to continue in the state. There is a possibility of more rain in central Kerala, north Kerala and the hilly areas today. A yellow alert has been issued in Ernakulam, Thrissur, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur and Kasaragod. There is a possibility of strong winds and thunderstorms along with the rain. The State Disaster Management Authority has asked the public to be alert. A ban has been imposed on fishing along the coasts of Kerala, Karnataka and Lakshadweep. Winds with a speed of 40 to 50 kmph are possible along with the rain.

The IMD has also informed that there is a possibility of moderate rain and strong winds with a speed of up to 40 kmph at isolated places in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Idukki, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod in the coming hours. There is a possibility of light rain and strong winds with a speed of up to 30 kmph at isolated places in Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur and Palakkad.

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 clouds. 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. 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 out onto 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 thunderstorms. Avoid collecting water from taps. Electricity caused by lightning can travel through pipes.