Heavy rains, wind speed of 40 kmph possible: Orange alert in three districts, including Ernakulam

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Meteorological Department has predicted heavy rains in three districts of Kerala for the next 24 hours. An orange alert has been issued in three districts. An orange alert has also been issued in Ernakulam district for the next 3 hours. There is a possibility of heavy rain and wind with thunderstorms at isolated places in Alappuzha and Ernakulam districts. Winds can blow at a speed of 40 kmph here.

Moderate rain and wind speed up to 40 kmph are likely at isolated places in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Malappuram and Kozhikode districts. The Indian Meteorological Department has informed that there is a possibility of light rain in isolated places in other districts. IMD has also issued an alert as there is a possibility of thunderstorms in isolated places in the coming hours.

• 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.