Heavy rains predicted in Kerala, five districts on alert

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has informed that rains are likely to lash Kerala today. It has been informed that there is a possibility of rain with thunder and strong winds with a speed of 40 to 50 kmph. No yellow alert has been issued in the districts today or tomorrow.

Yellow alert has been sounded in Pathanamthitta, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur and Kozhikode on May 18th. Isolated heavy rain is predicted. Heavy rain is defined as rainfall of 64.5 mm to 115.5 mm in 24 hours.

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

• Move inside a safe building immediately after seeing 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. Do not stand near doors and windows. Stay inside the building and try not to touch the walls or floor as much as possible.
• Disconnect the power supply of household appliances. Avoid proximity to 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 the vehicle during a thunderstorm. Do not put your arms and legs out. You will be safe inside the vehicle. Avoid traveling in vehicles such as bicycles, bikes, and tractors during a thunderstorm 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 over 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 dark 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 should be stopped during a thunderstorm.
• Avoid flying kites.