Dos and don'ts in case of a cyclone threat

India's cyclone season runs from April to December, with severe storms often causing dozens of deaths, evacuations of tens of thousands of people from low-lying villages and wide damage to crops and property.

India's cyclone season runs from April to December, with severe storms often causing dozens of deaths, evacuations of tens of thousands of people from low-lying villages and wide damage to crops and property.

The actions that need to be taken in the event of a cyclone threat can broadly be divided into four classes, viz., (i) immediately before the cyclone season; (ii) when cyclone alerts and warnings are on; (iii) when evacuations are advised; and (iv) when the cyclone has crossed the coast

Before the Cyclone season:
# Check the house; secure loose tiles, carry out repair works for doors and windows
# Remove dead woods or dying trees close to the house; anchor removable objects like
lumber piles, loose tin sheds, loose bricks, garbage cans, sign-boards etc. which can fly in
strong winds
# Keep some wooden boards ready so that glass windows can be boarded if needed
# Keep a hurricane lantern filled with kerosene, battery operated torches and enough dry cells
# Demolish condemned buildings
# Keep some extra batteries for transistors
# Keep some dry non-perishable food always ready for emergency use

When cyclone alerts and warnings are on
#Be sure that a window and door can be opened only on the side opposite to the one facing the wind
# Make provision for children and adults requiring special diets
# If the centre of the cyclone is passing directly over your house there will be a lull in the wind and rain lasting for half and hour or so. During this time do not go out; because immediately after that very strong winds will blow from the opposite direction
# Switch off electrical mains in your house
# Remain calm.

When evacuation is instructed
# Pack essentials for yourself and your family to last you a few days, including medicines,
special foods for babies and children or elders.
# Head for the proper shelter or evacuation points indicated for your area
# Do not worry about your property
# At the shelter follow instructions of the person in charge
# Remain in the shelter until you have been informed to leave

Post-cyclone measures
# You should remain in the shelter until informed that you can return to your home.
# You must get inoculated against diseases immediately.
# Strictly avoid any loose and dangling wires from the lamp posts.
# If you are to drive, drive carefully.
# Clear debris from your premises immediately.
# Report the correct loss to appropriate authorities.

(Sourced from: National Disaster Management Authority, Government of India Website)