IMD predicts heavy rain in all districts; strong winds likely

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has informed that all districts in Kerala are likely to receive rain today. It is being informed that from today to May 4, isolated places in Kerala are likely to receive rain with thunder and strong winds with a speed of 40 to 50 kmph.

Considering the possibility of heavy rain, a yellow alert has been issued in three districts tomorrow. The possibility of isolated heavy rain is predicted. Heavy rain means a situation where 64.5 mm to 115.5 mm of rain is received in 24 hours. However, the IMD has informed that there is no hindrance to fishing on the Kerala-Karnataka-Lakshadweep coasts today.

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 cloud. Lightning is not always visible, so do not neglect to take these precautions.

• Move to a safe building as soon as you see the first sign of lightning. Staying in open areas increases your 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 to avoid touching walls or floors as much as possible.

• Unplug household 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 and legs out. You will be safe inside your vehicle. Avoid riding a bicycle, bike, or tractor during a thunderstorm and seek shelter in a safe building until the thunderstorm ends.

• Do not go to the terrace or yard to get clothes when you see a rainstorm.

• Tie down objects that may fall in the wind.

• Avoid bathing during a thunderstorm. Avoid collecting water from taps. Electricity from 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.