THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Six districts including the capital have been warned of heavy summer rain tonight. The Central Meteorological Department informs that there is a possibility of rain with thunder at isolated places in the districts of Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Idukki, Palakkad and Wayanad, and winds that may blow at a speed of up to 40 km per hour.

The warning says that there is a possibility of 0.5 to 1 meter high waves and sea storms on the Kerala coast at 11.30 tonight. Fishermen and coastal residents should exercise caution. There is no restriction for fishing on Kerala, Karnataka, and Lakshadweep coasts. As the sea is likely to be rough, it is advised to avoid recreational activities that involve going into the sea. Fishing vessels and boats are also advised to moor safely.

Care should be given to preserve the rainwater received through summer rains as the summer season is intense. Rainwater harvesting is possible in any house. The process involves collecting the water that seeps from the roof and storing it in a tank. The water will be conveyed to the tank through channels. Water is fed to the tank through a three-layer sieve (charcoal, gravel, and sand) to prevent contamination. The water of the first rain is not collected. Tanks made of plastic, concrete, fiber, and ferrocement are available. Experts are of the opinion that water in the reservoirs will remain intact for a year. Local bodies have plans to install rainwater harvesting systems and subsidies will also be available for the same.