Nanded, Sep 21: A 'yellow' alert for rain accompanied by thunderstorm and lightning has been issued for Nanded district in Maharashtra from September 21 to 24, an official said on Monday.
Citing the forecast by the India Meteorological Department's Regional Meteorological Centre in Mumbai, the official said there is likelihood of light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds of 40-50 kilometres per hour (kmph) at isolated places on September 21, 22 and 24.
On September 23, there is higher possibility of "heavy rainfall at isolated places", accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds of 40-50 kmph, he added.
In view of the forecast, all concerned government agencies have been directed to take necessary precautionary and preventive measures, the official said.
District Disaster Management Officer Kishor Kunhe urged citizens to follow weather-related advisories and take necessary precautions during the alert period.
The administration advised people to avoid venturing outdoors during thunderstorms and lightning.
"Those caught in open areas should seek shelter in a safe building. If no safe shelter is available, they should move to a low-lying area and sit with their head between their knees. Citizens have also been advised not to remain on balconies, rooftops or open verandas during lightning activity," it said.
People should switch off electrical appliances and, where possible, disconnect their power supply during thunderstorms. They should stay away from wire fences, electric poles and other metal objects. Anyone in water should immediately move to a safe place, the administration said in its advisory.
"Avoid using landline phones, taking showers, touching taps or water pipelines and using electrical appliances during lightning activity. People should also avoid taking shelter in tents or sheds with metal frames, or standing under tall trees and near high metal towers," the administration said.
Citizens staying indoors have been advised not to stand near open doors or windows to watch lightning, it said, adding that people should avoid unnecessary travel and remain in safe places during the period of adverse weather.
