Thunderstorms and Heavy Rain Likely in Kerala Till Friday: Yellow Alert Issued in Several Districts

Thiruvananthapuram: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast isolated thunderstorms accompanied by rain across Kerala from today (Wednesday) till Friday.

A yellow alert has been issued for the districts of Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, and Idukki for today. The alert will continue for Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam districts tomorrow as well.

Thunderstorm Safety Guidelines

Thunderstorms are hazardous and can cause serious harm to humans, animals, electrical and communication networks, and appliances connected to power lines. Authorities have urged the public to take the following precautionary measures from the moment thunderclouds are visible. Lightning may occur even when not clearly seen, so precautions must never be ignored.

Move immediately to a safe building when lightning signs are detected. Avoid staying in open areas, as it increases the risk of a lightning strike. During strong winds or thunderstorms, close all doors and windows and stay away from them. Remain indoors and try to avoid contact with walls and floors.

Electrical Safety Measures

Disconnect electrical appliances and avoid using them during thunderstorms. Do not use landline telephones; using mobile phones is safe. Avoid playing on terraces or open spaces, especially when the sky is cloudy.

Outdoor and Vehicle Safety

Do not stand under trees or park vehicles beneath them. If inside a vehicle, stay inside with windows closed and avoid sticking out hands or legs — the vehicle offers protection. Avoid travelling by bicycle, motorcycle, or tractor during thunderstorms. Seek shelter in a safe building until it passes.

During Rain and Thunder

Do not go to rooftops or yards to collect clothes when thunder or lightning occurs. Secure loose objects that could be blown away by the wind. Avoid bathing or collecting water from taps, as lightning current may travel through metal pipes.

Precautions Near Water Bodies

Do not go fishing or swimming during lightning. Stop fishing, boating, or similar activities as soon as thunderclouds appear and move immediately to the nearest shore. Avoid standing on boat decks or casting nets during lightning.

Other Precautions

Avoid flying kites or sitting on rooftops or tree branches. Do not tie pets in open areas during thunderstorms. Avoid going outside to untie or move them when dark clouds form. If caught in an open area with no shelter, crouch down with your feet together, tuck your head between your knees, and remain low to the ground.

House Safety Measures

Install lightning arresters on buildings to prevent lightning damage. Use surge protectors to safeguard electrical appliances.

Emergency Response

Lightning strikes can cause burns, hearing or vision loss, and even cardiac arrest. It is important to remember that a lightning victim does not carry electric charge, so first aid can be safely administered. The first 30 seconds after a strike are crucial to saving a life. Immediate medical attention must be provided to the victim.