ALAPPUZHA: Recent heavy thunderstorms and lightning accompanied by rain have raised significant concerns in the district. On Saturday at around 5 pm, a house in Alappuzha city caught fire due to a powerful lightning strike. In another incident, a KSEB meter box in a house also caught fire but the blaze was contained to the switchboard preventing a major disaster.

Numerous homes have suffered damage from these thunderstorms resulting in the destruction of electrical and electronic equipment. While it's impossible to prevent lightning, the fire department advises taking measures to minimize its impact.

Lightning is not classified as a nationally recognized disaster but it has been considered a special disaster in Kerala since 2015 through the special authority of the State Disaster Management Authority.

Be lightning aware and reduce its impact

Direct lightning strike: Accidents caused by direct lightning strikes make up 3 to 5 percent of cases primarily affecting those working outdoors.

Side flash: These accidents occur when individuals seek shelter under trees during lightning storms.

Ground current: Lightning's energy travels through the earth's surface when it strikes an object posing a serious danger to humans and sometimes resulting in fatalities.

Conduction: Lightning can travel over long distances through wires and metal surfaces creating dangers indoors.

Precautionary steps

Avoid open areas during lightning: Stay indoors or seek shelter to minimize the risk.

Do not touch building surfaces: Avoid contact with walls or floors to prevent electrical shocks.

Use mobile phones not landlines: Landlines can conduct lightning, so use mobile phones instead.

Unplug household appliances: Disconnect appliances to prevent damage from electrical surges.

Avoid bathing or using taps: Water conducts electricity, so avoid using water sources during lightning storms.

Around 83 percent of lightning accidents occur between 3 pm and 7 pm. Thunderstorms are most frequent in Kerala during April-May (pre-monsoon) and October-November (northeast monsoon).

It's worth noting that building grounding systems are limited in their ability to protect against lightning strikes. Therefore, it's crucial to take maximum precautions, as advised by Agni Raksha Sena, Alappuzha.