• Heavy rains positively replenish our water sources and sustain agricultural activities, but they can also negatively cause catastrophes like floods, infrastructural damage, and worse, cold-related illness.

When it rains, the impacts can be both a blessing and a curse. Heavy rains positively replenish our water sources and sustain agricultural activities, but they can also negatively cause catastrophes like floods, infrastructural damage, and worse, cold-related illness.

When the skies become dark and signs of heavy rains become evident, being prepared can mean the difference between safety and disaster. Here are some important actions to take in preparation for heavy rains.

Securing your home and surroundings is an important action to take. This basically means fortifying your homes against any potential damage that might be caused by the elements. You can secure your home by checking possible leaks, checking your roofs to see if they are still intact, and fixing gutters, which help direct and correct water.

It's important to stay updated on climate and weather reports. Tune into local radio stations, which often provide weather bulletins, install weather apps for real-time updates, and use social media and local television channels, which also provide updates, especially during severe times. This will help you exercise caution and make quick and wise decisions.

People also tend to be ignorant when there are heavy rains. During the onset of heavy rains, it's advisable to avoid being flooded. Before heavy rains, it's important to know flood-prone areas and avoid them. If the government insists on evacuating, respond immediately.

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During heavy rains, never drive through floodwater; instead, use elevated paths or higher ground to avoid the risk of being swept away by floods.

Preparing an emergency kit is another key action to consider. Ensure you have essentials like clean drinking water, non-perishable food if needed, and first aid kits, such as bandages, flashlights, and batteries.

For clothing and shelter, ensure you have warm clothing and blankets and also rain gear, such as gumboots, raincoats, and umbrellas.

Most importantly, assist the vulnerable or any person who is in need. Old people, children and the people with disability might find hard time in preparation for heavy rains.

It's important to identify vulnerable groups, ensure they are safe and sheltered, evacuate them if necessary, provide them with enough essentials like food, and mitigate flood risks. This helps save your life and the lives of others.

Prevention is better than cure. Taking these actions can help avoid the risk of losing properties and lives during heavy rains.

Taking action can also help minimize the total damage that the rain can cause when it strikes and help save your life and the lives of others. So during heavy rains, don't just sit and wait; instead, act accordingly.