Rain with thunder and lightning predicted in state today; five districts warned

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Widespread rain has been predicted in the state today. Yellow alert has been issued in Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam and Idukki. A chance of isolated heavy rain with thunder and lightning is predicted. Heavy rain refers to rainfall of 64.5 mm to 115.5 mm in 24 hours.

Special instructions to public
People living in areas prone to landslides, mudslides and flash floods should move to safer places as per the instructions of the authorities.

Residents living in river banks and downstream areas of dams should anticipate the danger and evacuate as per the instructions of the authorities.

People living in disaster prone areas must ensure that camps are opened in their area and move there during the day. For this, local body and revenue authorities can be contacted.

People living in houses not safe and those living in houses with weak roofs should be especially careful because of the possibility of strong winds. Those who see danger should contact the authorities and evacuate to safe places as a safety precaution.

You should also be aware of the dangers that may arise from trees falling down and posts collapsing in the wind. Precautionary measures to be taken during strong winds issued by the state disaster management authority are available from the link https://sdma.kerala.gov.in/windwarning/.

Under no circumstances should one cross rivers, bathe in rivers or other bodies of water, fish or do any other purpose during heavy rains.

Viewing, taking selfies or congregating on the overpasses above water bodies is not permitted.

Avoid non-essential travel completely during heavy rains. Recreational trips to waterfalls, water bodies and hilly areas should be avoided completely until the rain warning is lifted.

Be especially careful when traveling on roads adjacent to bodies of water. Also be careful on roads under maintenance. In the case of heavy rains, the possibility of increasing road accidents should be seen. Do not attempt to drive in areas where water bodies are overflowing.

Trees/posts/boards, walls etc. standing in danger in private and public areas should be secured and trees should be trimmed. Dangerous conditions should be brought to the attention of the authorities.

Those in disaster prone areas should have an emergency kit ready immediately. Instructions for preparing the kit can be found at https://sdma.kerala.gov.in/.../2020/07/Emergency-Kit.pdf.