IMD Issues Thunderstorm and Heavy Rain Alert Across Kerala

Thiruvananthapuram: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of widespread rain accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds across Kerala over the coming days.

According to the latest forecast, isolated thunderstorms and lightning are expected from today through Wednesday, while rainfall activity is likely to intensify on Thursday and Friday. The weather department has also cautioned that wind speeds could reach 40 to 50 kmph in several areas during this period.

Meteorologists attribute the changing weather conditions to multiple atmospheric systems currently active over the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. A low-pressure system has formed over the southwest Bay of Bengal near the northern Sri Lanka coast and is expected to strengthen further within the next 48 hours.

In addition, a cyclonic circulation persists over the southeast Arabian Sea and the Lakshadweep region. Two separate troughs extending from the Bay of Bengal to Lakshadweep and from the Arabian Sea to the Maharashtra coast are also likely to enhance rainfall activity across Kerala.

Weather officials have indicated the possibility of isolated heavy rainfall in parts of the State on May 14 and 15.

Public are urged to remain extremely cautious, warning that lightning can pose serious threats to life and property. People have been advised to move indoors immediately at the first sign of thunderstorms and avoid staying in open spaces, terraces, under trees, or near water bodies during lightning activity.

Residents are also advised to unplug electrical appliances, avoid wired telephone use during thunderstorms, and refrain from travelling on bicycles, motorcycles, tractors, or boats when lightning risk is high. Fishermen and boat operators have been instructed to return to shore immediately if dark clouds begin forming.

It is further recommended securing objects that may be blown away by strong winds and avoiding bathing, fishing, or collecting water from taps during lightning activity due to the risk of electrical conduction through pipelines.

Lightning strike victims do not retain electrical charge and can be safely given first aid immediately. Emergency medical attention should be provided without delay, as the first few moments after a lightning strike are considered critical for saving lives.