IMD issues Yellow alert across multiple districts including Kochi; warns of heavy rain and thunderstorms until May 28

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast widespread rainfall across Kerala over the next five days, prompting weather officials to issue yellow alerts for several districts experiencing isolated heavy downpours.

According to the IMD, "heavy rainfall" is categorised as receiving between 64.5 mm and 115.5 mm of precipitation within a 24-hour window. Alongside the deluge, squally weather featuring thunderstorms and gusty winds speeding up to 40-50 km/h is expected to impact isolated pockets of the state through May 28.

District-Wise Alert Schedule

The IMD has placed ten districts under a yellow alert today, including Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur, and Kasaragod. The alert schedule for the upcoming days is as follows:

• May 25: Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Wayanad.
• May 26: Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha, and Ernakulam.
• May 27: Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and Alappuzha.
• May 28: Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, and Idukki.

State Advisory: Key Safety Guidelines Issued

Highlighting the severe threat lightning poses to human and animal lives, power grids, communication networks, and home electronics, the State Disaster Management authorities have issued a comprehensive safety advisory. Residents are urged to implement precautionary measures the moment storm clouds gather, even if active lightning is not yet visible.

Indoor and Electrical Safety:

• Seek Immediate Shelter: Move indoors at the first sign of a storm. Open spaces significantly elevate the risk of lightning strikes.
• Secure the Home: Keep doors and windows firmly shut. Stay away from openings, remain centered in rooms, and avoid touching walls or floors.
• Unplug Electronics: Disconnect all household appliances to protect against power surges. Avoid using corded landline phones; however, mobile phone usage is deemed safe.
• Avoid Running Water: Refrain from bathing or collecting water from indoor taps during a storm, as plumbing lines can conduct electrical currents from lightning strike points.

Outdoor and Transit Guidelines:

• Vehicular Safety: If traveling, remain inside cars or closed vehicles with windows rolled up. Avoid open-air transit such as motorcycles, bicycles, or tractors, and seek substantial shelter immediately. Do not park vehicles under trees.
• Water Bodies: All fishing, boating, and swimming activities must cease immediately when clouds darken. Individuals on the water should return to shore instantly and avoid standing on open boat decks.
• General Hazards: Do not step outside to gather laundry during a storm. Secure loose outdoor objects that could be displaced by strong winds, and strictly avoid flying kites or allowing children to play on open terraces and fields.