Red alert in three districts; heavy rainfall warning in Kerala for next five days

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Heavy rains are likely to lash across the state for the next five days. A red alert has been declared in Pathanamthitta, Kottayam and Idukki districts while an orange alert has been announced in the Malappuram district. Rain warning has been issued in all the districts except Kannur and Kasaragod.

An orange alert has been declared in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha and Ernakulam on Sunday and Monday. Along with the rain, strong winds, lightning, landslides and flash floods are likely. IMD has issued a warning in this regard.

Thunderstorms are dangerous. They cause great damage to human and animal life, electrical and communication networks and household appliances connected to electrical conductors.

– Immediately move inside a safe building at the first sign of lightning. Staying 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 wall or floor as much as possible.

– Unplug household appliances. Avoid proximity to electrical appliances during thunderstorms.

- Avoid using the telephone during thunderstorms. It is okay to use a mobile phone.