Heavy rain predicted in Kerala; Yellow alert in three districts today, people of this district should be specially careful on May 1

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has said that there is a possibility of rain in the state for the next five days. Yellow alert has been issued in various districts. Idukki, Kannur and Kasaragod are on yellow alert today, Pathanamthitta, Idukki and Wayanad districts are on yellow alert tomorrow (May 1) and Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam and Wayanad on May 2.

Isolated heavy rain is predicted. Heavy rain is defined as a situation where 64.5 mm to 115.5 mm of rain is received in 24 hours. The IMD has informed that there is a possibility of rain with thunder and strong winds with a speed of 40-50 kmph in isolated places in Kerala till May 3.

Alert issued Thunderstorms 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 from the moment they begin to see the thundercloud. Since lightning may not always be visible, do not refrain from taking such precautions.

• Immediately move into 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 periods of strong winds and lightning. Do not stand near doors and windows. Stay inside the building and try to avoid touching the walls or floor as much as possible.
• Disconnect household appliances from the power supply. Avoid proximity to 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 and 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 rainstorm.
• Tie down objects that may fall in the wind.
• Avoid bathing during a thunderstorm. Avoid collecting water from taps. Electricity caused by lightning can travel through pipes.
• Do not go fishing or bathing in water bodies during a thunderstorm. As soon as you see the clouds, stop fishing, boating, etc., and try to reach the nearest shore immediately. Do not stand on the deck of the boat during a thunderstorm. Stop fishing and casting nets during a thunderstorm.
• Avoid flying kites.