Schools to remain close on May 7 and 8 due to thunderstorm warning

CHANDIGARH, MAY 6

In view of the warning of thunderstorm and rain between May 7 and 8 by Meteorological Department, the Haryana Government has decided that all Government and private schools in the state will remain closed on these days.

        This was announced by the Education Minister, Mr. Ram Bilas Sharma, here today.

Meanwhile, Haryana Revenue and Disaster Management Department has issued advisory in public interest in view of possibility of heavy rain, thunderstorms or dust storms on May 7 and 8. The Department has suggested safety tips to be adopted in case of thunderstorms, dust storms and squall.

        While stating this here today, a spokesman of the Department said that there will be no need to panic and people should follow the precautions suggested by the Department, and pay special attention to children and senior citizens. All departments have been directed to stay alert, he added.

        He said that people should prepare an emergency kit with essential items for safety and survival. They should secure their houses, carry out repairs and do not leave sharp objects loose. Secure outside objects that could blow away and cause damage, remove rotting trees or broken branches that could fall and cause injury or damage and listen to radio, watch TV or read newspapers for weather updates and warnings.

        The spokesman said that during heavy rain and thunderstorms, people are advised not to panic and try to stay indoors and stay off verandas. People should also unplug all electrical equipment and should not use corded telephones. They have been advised not to touch plumbing and metal pipes, not to use running water and stay away from structures with tin roofs and metal sheeting. People should not take shelter near or under trees, do not use metallic objects, stay away from power and telephone lines and get out of water pools, lakes, small boats on water bodies and take safe shelter immediately.

        He said that after occurring of thunderstorms or heavy rain, people stay away from storm-damaged areas and listen to local radio and TV stations for updated information or instructions on weather and traffic updates. They should help children, women, elderly and differently-abled and stay away from fallen trees or power lines and report them to nearest tehsil or district headquarters immediately.

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