Kochi, 29 March (HS): The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast isolated thunderstorms accompanied by lightning across Kerala until Wednesday, urging residents to remain cautious amid changing weather conditions.
According to the IMD, strong winds with speeds ranging between 30 and 40 kmph are also expected in several parts of the state on Sunday. Authorities have advised the public to exercise vigilance, as lightning strikes can pose serious risks to human life, livestock, electrical infrastructure, and household appliances connected to power lines.
In its advisory, the IMD highlighted that lightning is a highly dangerous natural phenomenon capable of causing significant damage. People are urged to take preventive measures at the earliest signs of thunderstorms.
Residents have been advised to move indoors immediately upon noticing lightning or hearing thunder, as staying in open areas significantly increases the risk of being struck. During periods of strong winds and lightning, doors and windows should be kept closed, and individuals should avoid standing near them. It is also recommended to remain inside buildings and minimise contact with walls or floors as a precaution.
The department further cautioned against using electrical appliances during lightning activity. Households are advised to disconnect electrical equipment to prevent damage from power surges. While the use of mobile phones is considered safe, using landline telephones should be avoided during thunderstorms.
Children and adults alike are discouraged from playing in open areas, terraces, or rooftops when the sky is overcast. Standing under trees during lightning is particularly dangerous, and vehicles should not be parked beneath trees due to the risk of falling branches or lightning strikes.
People travelling in vehicles are advised to remain inside, as vehicles can provide relative safety during lightning. However, riding bicycles, motorcycles, or tractors should be avoided during such conditions, and individuals should seek shelter in a nearby building until the weather improves.
The IMD also warned against outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, or swimming during thunderstorms. Those already at sea or in water bodies should return to shore immediately at the first signs of dark clouds or lightning. Standing on boat decks or continuing fishing activities during lightning is considered highly unsafe.
Additional precautions include avoiding bathing or collecting water during lightning, as electric currents can travel through plumbing systems. Residents should also secure loose objects that could be blown away by strong winds and avoid flying kites or staying in elevated places such as terraces or tree branches during storms.
With the possibility of adverse weather continuing over the next few days, authorities have urged the public to stay alert and follow all safety guidelines to minimise risks.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
