Rains likely to lash state today; orange alert in three districts, alert issued

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Rains are likely to lash the state on Monday. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has informed that there is a possibility of rain and strong winds with lightning at isolated places till August 21. The warning is that there is a possibility of strong winds with a speed of 30 to 40 km per hour and on some occasions up to 50 km per hour.

Orange alert has been sounded in three districts--Pathanamthitta, Kottayam and Idukki. Ernakulam is also on orange alert tomorrow. Yellow alert has also been declared in Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Kannur and Kasaragod today.

Safety measures
Thunderstorms are dangerous. They cause great damage to human and animal life, electrical and communication networks and appliances connected to electrical conductors. Therefore, the general public should take the following safety measures from the time the cloud starts to be seen. Lightning may not always be visible, so do not hesitate to take this precaution.

Immediately move indoors at the first sign of lightning. Staying in open areas increases the chance of being struck by lightning.

Keep windows and doors closed during periods of 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. Can use a mobile phone.

Avoid playing outdoors and on terraces, including children, if the weather is cloudy.

Do not stand under trees during thunderstorms. Do not park vehicles under trees.

Stay inside the vehicle during a thunderstorm. Don't put your legs out. You will be safe inside the vehicle. Avoid traveling on vehicles like bicycles, bikes, tractors during thunderstorms and seek shelter in a safe building until the thunderstorm ends.

Do not go out to the terrace or yard to collect clothes when there is rain or during thunderstorms.

Tie down objects that are likely to fall over in the wind.