Pre-Monsoon Rains Continue; Yellow Alert in Three Kerala Districts, Showers Expected Until May 2

Thiruvananthapuram: Pre-monsoon rains are continuing to bring relief from the intense heat wave across Kerala, with the India Meteorological Department issuing Yellow Alerts today for Idukki, Kannur, and Kasaragod districts. The Meteorological Centre has assessed that rain will continue across the state until May 2, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds gusting between 40 and 50 kilometres per hour.

The State Disaster Management Authority has urged the public to remain vigilant as the pre-monsoon rains intensify, reiterating the following safety guidelines:

At the first sign of lightning, move immediately into a secure building. Avoid open areas and terraces. Keep doors and windows shut during strong winds and thunder. Avoid touching walls or floors inside buildings, and unplug all electrical appliances. Do not use landline telephones during lightning — mobile phones are safe. Never shelter under trees or park vehicles beneath them. Cyclists, motorcyclists, and tractor riders should stop and take shelter in a secure building. Avoid bathing during lightning, and do not enter water bodies for fishing or swimming. Fisherfolk must head to shore and suspend all boating and net-casting activities immediately upon seeing storm clouds. Do not leave pets tethered in open areas.

Lightning strike victims carry no residual electrical charge — assist them without hesitation. The first 30 seconds are the golden window to save a life. Seek medical help immediately