Heavy rains predicted, four districts on yellow alert

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy rains in four districts today. A yellow alert has been issued in various districts. Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad and Malappuram are on yellow alert today. The possibility of isolated heavy rain is predicted. Heavy rain is defined as a situation where 64.5 mm to 115.5 mm of rain is expected in 24 hours. The IMD has also informed that there is a possibility of rain with thunderstorms and strong winds blowing at a speed of 30 to 40 kmph today and tomorrow.

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

• Move to a safe building as soon as you see 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. Stay away from doors and windows. Stay inside the building and try not to touch the walls or floor as much as possible.

• Disconnect electrical appliances. Avoid being near 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 your vehicle during a thunderstorm. Do not put your arms or legs out. You will be safer inside your vehicle. Avoid riding bicycles, bikes, tractors, etc. during thunderstorms and seek shelter in a safe building until the thunderstorm ends.

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

• 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 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.

• Avoid flying kites.