Kerala to receive rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms; people in these districts should exercise caution

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that isolated places in Kerala are likely to receive rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms from today till the 10th. A yellow alert has been issued in several districts. For today, the alert applies to Pathanamthitta and Idukki.

Tomorrow, a yellow alert has been issued for Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, and Alappuzha, and for Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and Alappuzha on the 10th. The forecast predicts the possibility of isolated heavy rainfall. “Heavy rain” refers to a situation where rainfall measures between 64.5 mm and 115.5 mm within 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 moment they first see the storm. Since lightning may not always be visible, do not refrain from taking such precautions.
• Immediately move into a safe building 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. Avoid standing near doors and windows. Stay inside the building and try to avoid touching walls or floors as much as possible.
• Disconnect household appliances from the power supply. 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 bicycles, bikes, tractors, etc. 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 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.
• It is dangerous to sit on a terrace, other high places, or tree branch during a thunderstorm.