Heavy rain forecast for Kerala: Meteorological Department issues five-day warning as yellow alerts placed on multiple districts

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Central Meteorological Department has issued a weather warning for Kerala, forecasting widespread rainfall across the state over the next five days. Authorities have placed several districts on a yellow alert, urging residents, particularly those travelling or outdoors in the evening, to exercise caution.

According to the weather bulletin, the yellow alert is active today for Kozhikode, Kannur, and Kasaragod districts. On Sunday, the alert will shift to the southern and central regions, covering Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, and Ernakulam districts.

The meteorological department has predicted isolated heavy rainfall, defined as a precipitation volume ranging between 64.5 mm and 115.5 mm within a 24-hour period. Severe thunderstorms accompanied by lightning are also expected across isolated pockets of the state today.

Official safety advisory issued

Given the high risks associated with lightning strikes—which pose a severe threat to human and animal life, electrical grids, communication networks, and household appliances—disaster management authorities have released a comprehensive safety protocol. Residents are advised to adhere to the following guidelines as soon as overcast conditions develop:

• Seek Immediate Shelter: Move indoors or into a secure building at the first sign of lightning or thunder. Remaining in open areas significantly increases the risk of being struck.
• Secure Residences: Close all windows and doors during strong winds and lightning. Avoid standing near windows, and refrain from making direct contact with walls or floors inside the building.
• Electrical Safety: Disconnect all household appliances from power outlets. Avoid proximity to electrical devices for the duration of the storm.
• Communication Restrictions: Refrain from using landline telephones during thunderstorms. Cellular devices, however, remain safe for use.
• Outdoor and Recreational Limits: Children and adults should avoid playing or gathering in open fields, courtyards, or rooftops if the sky is overcast. Do not attempt to retrieve laundry from outdoor lines once clouds gather. Kite flying is strictly prohibited.
• Avoid Hazardous Shelter: Never stand underneath trees or park vehicles below them.
• Vehicle Guidelines: Individuals inside automobiles should remain within the vehicle, ensuring all limbs stay inside, as passenger cabins offer a grounded environment. Conversely, travel on bicycles, motorcycles, or tractors should be suspended immediately, and riders should seek shelter in a permanent structure.
• Secure Property: Property owners should tie down or secure loose outdoor objects that could be displaced by strong winds.
• Water Safety and Domestic Utilities: Avoid bathing or collecting water from taps during a storm, as plumbing lines can conduct electrical currents from lightning strikes.
• Marine Hazards: All water-based activities, including fishing, swimming, angling, and boating, must be suspended immediately when storm clouds appear. Boat operators are advised to return to the nearest shore promptly and avoid standing on open decks.