Heavy rains likely to lash Kerala in next two days; five districts on orange alert

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of a possibility of heavy rains in the state again. An orange alert has been issued in various districts of the state on May 19 and 20. The warning is for Kasaragod, Kannur, Kozhikode, Malappuram and Wayanad on May 19 and for Kasaragod, Kannur, Kozhikode and Wayanad on May 20.

With the onset of monsoon in the southern Bay of Bengal, rains are likely to start in Kerala by the end of next week. According to the forecast of the IMD, there is a possibility of rain in all districts of Kerala from May 16 to 22. The IMD has also advised people to be vigilant.

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 storm clouds. 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 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.