Rain with thundershowers likely in Kerala, alert issued

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that there is a possibility of rain in Kerala for the next five days. There is a possibility of rain with thunder and lightning in isolated places today. There will be light rain in all other districts except Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode and Wayanad tomorrow. There is a possibility of rain in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Kozhikode, Kannur and Kasaragod on March 15. There is a possibility of rain with thunder and lightning on March 16 and 17, informed IMD.

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 dark clouds. Since lightning may not always be visible, do not refrain from taking such precautions.

1. Immediately move to a safe building at the first sign of a thunderstorm. Remaining in open areas increases the risk of being struck by lightning.

2. 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.

3. Unplug household appliances. Avoid being near electrical appliances during a thunderstorm.

4. Avoid using the telephone during a thunderstorm. It is safe to use a mobile phone.

5. If the weather is cloudy, avoid playing outdoors and on terraces, including with children.

6. Do not stand under trees during a thunderstorm. Do not park vehicles under trees.

7. Stay inside your vehicle during a thunderstorm. Do not put your hands and feet outside. You will be safe inside the vehicle. Avoid riding a bicycle, bike, or tractor during a thunderstorm and seek shelter in a safe building until the thunderstorm ends.

8. When you see a rainstorm, do not go to the terrace or yard to get clothes during a thunderstorm.

9. Tie down objects that may fall in the wind.

10. Avoid bathing during a thunderstorm. Avoid collecting water from taps. Electricity from lightning can travel through pipes.

11. Do not go fishing or bathing in water during a thunderstorm. As soon as you see the clouds, stop fishing and boating and try to reach the nearest shore immediately. Do not stand on the deck of a boat during a thunderstorm. Baiting and casting nets should be stopped during a thunderstorm.

12. Avoid flying kites.