IMD forecasts five days of rain in Kerala; Yellow alert issued for seven districts

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast widespread rainfall across Kerala over the next five days. A Yellow Alert has been issued today for seven districts: Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, and Ernakulam.

The weather agency has predicted isolated heavy rainfall, defined as precipitation measuring between 64.5 mm and 115.5 mm within a 24-hour period. The downpour is expected to be accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40 to 50 km/h in isolated areas.

Severe Weather Advisory and Safety Guidelines

Lightning poses a severe threat to human and animal lives. It can cause extensive damage to electrical and communication networks, as well as household appliances connected to power sources.

The State Disaster Management Authority urges the public to adhere strictly to the following safety precautions as soon as storm clouds begin to form:

1. Indoor and Personal Safety

• Seek Immediate Shelter: Move inside a structurally sound building at the first sign of lightning. Remaining in open areas significantly increases the risk of being struck.
• Secure Openings: Keep windows and doors tightly shut during heavy winds and lightning. Stay away from windows and avoid touching walls or floors, as concrete can conduct electricity.
• Unplug Appliances: Disconnect all household electrical appliances from power outlets. Avoid proximity to electronic devices during the storm.
• Communication: Refrain from using landline telephones. However, the use of mobile phones is safe.
• Hygiene Restrictions: Avoid bathing or running tap water during a thunderstorm, as electricity from a lightning strike can travel through metal piping.

2. Outdoor and Travel Precautions

• Avoid Open Spaces: Children and adults must refrain from playing or gathering in open fields, courtyards, or terraces if the sky is overcast. Do not venture out to collect laundry when dark clouds gather.
• Vehicle Safety: If you are traveling, remain inside your vehicle (car or bus), keeping your hands and legs inside. Vehicles with metal roofs offer good protection. However, those riding bicycles, motorcycles, or tractors should immediately halt their journey and seek shelter in a nearby building.
• Tree Hazards: Never stand under trees during a storm, and avoid parking vehicles beneath them to prevent damage from falling branches or lightning strikes.
• Secure Property: Property owners should securely tie down loose objects outside that could be displaced or overturned by strong winds.

3. Guidelines for Waterbodies and Fishermen

• Suspension of Aquatic Activities: All activities on waterbodies—including fishing, boating, angling, and swimming—must be suspended immediately when storm clouds appear.
• Evacuate to Shore: Those currently on boats should head to the nearest shore immediately and avoid standing on the boat's open deck.
• Avoid Elevated Activities: Flying kites or climbing trees, terraces, and other elevated structures is strictly prohibited during thunderstorms.

4. Livestock and Emergency Survival

• Animal Safety: Do not leave pets or livestock tied up in open areas. Additionally, do not attempt to untie or relocate them once the storm begins, as this puts you at immediate risk.
• Emergency Posture: If you are caught in an open area with no nearby shelter, crouch down low on the balls of your feet with your heels touching. Tuck your head toward your knees to make yourself as small a target as possible. Do not lie flat on the ground.

Long-Term Protection Measures

To safeguard property and electronics against future weather anomalies, authorities recommend installing lightning conductors (lightning rods) atop buildings and integrating surge protectors into household electrical systems.