Northeast monsoon hits Kerala again; three districts on yellow alert, next five days crucial

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of a moderate rain in Kerala for the next five days. Yellow alert has been sounded in Thrissur, Malappuram and Wayanad today. The possibility of isolated heavy rain is predicted for these districts. The IMD has defined heavy rain as 64.5mm to 115.5mm rain within 24 hours. Rain with thunderstorm is expected.
Meantime, northeast monsoon is becoming active in Kerala again. The presence of a low-pressure belt in the atmosphere at a height of 1500m extending from northern Tamil Nadu to Lakshadweep through Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala is strengthening rain.

Alert issued
Lightning and thunder are dangerous. They bring great destructions to the life of human and animals, electronics and communication networks and home appliances connected to electric conductors. Therefor people have to follow the given caution instructions since the clouds start to get visible. Since lightning and thunder is not always visible, do not fail to take these measures from the start.

• Shift to a safer building during the first signs of lightning. Being in open premises enhance the risk of lightning strike.
• Close the doors and windows at times of storms. Do not stay closer to doors or windows. Stay indoors and do not touch the walls or floor.
• Disconnect all home appliances. Do not use any electronic appliances while there is lightning.
• Make sure not to use telephone while lightning. It is not risky to use mobile phones.
• In cloudy times avoid playing in open spaces and terraces.
• Do not stand beneath trees while lightning. Do not park vehicles underneath trees too.
• Stay inside the vehicles at times of lightning. Do not put arms or legs outside. You will be safe inside the vehicle. Travelling by cycle, bike and tractor should be avoided during lightning and move to a safer building until lightning stops.
• Do not go to open yard or terrace to take clothes during lightning.
• Tie up the things which fall during winds.