Tamil Nadu’s electricity department has issued a monsoon safety advisory urging residents to stay away from snapped electricity wires, waterlogged electrical installations, transformers and other exposed power infrastructure during lightning, thunder and heavy rain.
The department asked people not to approach electric posts or touch snapped wires lying on roads, streets or stagnant water. Residents who spot a broken electricity conductor have been advised to inform the electricity board, alert nearby people and keep away from the location rather than attempting to move or inspect the wire.
The advisory also warned residents against standing in open areas, under trees or near windows during lightning. People have been asked to switch off electrical appliances and wired telephones during lightning and thunder, and to avoid using electrical equipment with moist hands. The department further advised the public to stay away from waterlogged areas near pillar boxes and electrical switchboards.
In the event of a short circuit, residents should switch off the mains, the department said. Households should ensure that the main supply can be accessed quickly so that power can be disconnected in an emergency. The guidance also asked people not to go near transformers, pillar boxes, electrical poles, stay wires or fencing during wet conditions.
The department advised people to seek shelter during lightning and thunder by moving into a large building or a metal-topped vehicle such as a car or bus. Where no shelter is available, people should find a low spot away from trees, power lines, poles and metal fences. The instructions are particularly relevant in urban areas, where rainwater can bring people into closer contact with electrical equipment installed near roads, buildings and public spaces.
Residents have also been asked to close windows located near plug points during showers and avoid standing near open windows or doors during thunder or lightning. The department recommended installing switches and plug sockets at heights that are inaccessible to children. It also said switches should not be installed inside bathrooms or other wet areas.
The advisory extended to livestock and household electrical safety. People were told not to tie animals to electric poles and to avoid approaching electrical installations in wet conditions. The department’s instructions place responsibility on residents to report hazards promptly while leaving damaged conductors and exposed equipment for the electricity board to address.
The safety measures come as the state prepares for monsoon-related risks that can combine rainfall, waterlogging and damage to electrical infrastructure. The department’s immediate guidance is for residents to seek dry shelter during lightning, disconnect household power when necessary and maintain a safe distance from damaged or water-exposed electrical equipment.
