These pictures were clicked on the right bank of River Tungabhadra,
few meters away from ‘Brindavanam’ just before sunset two days ago, on 9th
September 2015, as the River level was rising swiftly due to heavy rains:
Tragedy
struck our neighboring States of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha yesterday (Sunday, 6th
Sept. 2015) in the form of lightning, killing at least 32 people. In Andhra
Pradesh alone 23 deaths have occurred, spread over the districts of Nellore,
Prakasham, Guntur, Krishna, East Godavari, Anantapur and Srikakulam. This is a
very high death toll due to lightning. I feel some of these deaths could have
been averted if the victims had knowledge of protecting themselves from
lightning.
This
article is about protecting ourselves and our loved ones from lightning
strikes. The odds of anyone being struck by lightning in a given year are projected
as only around 1 in 500,000 but yesterday’s large scale tragedy has caused pain
and some worry and made me collect these safety procedures for all us to note
and follow.
ØIf
the weather forecast indicates thunderstorms, be cautious.
ØWhen
a thunderstorm threatens, get inside a home or large building or inside an
all-metal vehicle (not convertible). A non-concrete structure is the safest
because lightning can pass through any metal rods and wires in concrete
structures.
ØInside
a home, avoid using the telephone, except for emergencies. However cordless and
cellular phones are safe to use during storms.
ØAvoid
water taps, as lightning electricity can travel through plumbing.
ØAvoid
electronic equipment of all types. As lightning can travel through electrical
systems and radio and television reception systems.
ØIf
outside, with no time to reach a safe building or an automobile, follow these rules:
ØDo
not stand underneath a natural lighting rod such as a tall, isolated tree.
ØAvoid
projecting above the surrounding landscape as you would do if you were standing
on a hilltop, in an open field, on the beach, or fishing from a small boat.
ØGet
out of and away from open water.
ØGet
away from tractors and other metal farm equipment.
ØGet
off and away from motorcycles, scooters, golf carts and bicycles. Put down golf
clubs.
ØStay
away from wire fences, clotheslines, metal pipes, rails and other metallic
paths which could carry lightning to you from some distance away.
ØAvoid
standing in small isolated sheds or other small structures in open areas.
ØIn
a forest, seek shelter in a low area under a thick growth of small trees. In
open areas, go to a low place such as a ravine or a valley. Be alert for flash
floods.
ØIf
you are hopelessly isolated in a level field of prairie and you feel your hair
stand on end – indicating that lightning is about to strike – drop to your
knees and bend forward putting your hands on your knees. Do not like flat on
the ground. Now
please watch these two very informative videos on Lightning and see the posters
below them:
Two
teenagers, the sister of the bride and the brother of the bridegroom were
introduced at the pre-wedding ceremonies of their older siblings and after the
wedding providence brought these two teenagers closer and as days, weeks and
months passed their courtship continued unknown to the elders and the society
around them, for four years!
After
four years, soon after the young man completed his graduation and got employed
and as the girl’s parents were seeking a marriage alliance for her, the
youngsters expressed their intent to get married.
Surprised
and shocked initially, the elders discussed and happily agreed to their
marriage but within days they went back on their decision as some persons
influenced them stating that two sisters cannot be married into the same family
as it would bring bad luck to their families.
After
almost two years of turmoil between these two families and anguish of the
youngsters, providence prevailed and brought happiness to all of them and
united the young couple in marriage.
Thereafter,
touch wood…the couple is leading a blissful life spreading happiness around
them with their two sons and is today going to be grandparents!
P.S. This short story by me is a result of new genres cropping up
in the world of blogging and general writing. Interesting, creative and
challenging avenues are opening up for people who love writing…in the form of
‘Five Sentence Fiction’, ‘Flash Fiction’, ‘Six Word Stories’, ‘Subject based
Essay writing Competitions’ and so on. My above story is in line with this
trend. I hope you found it interesting and liked it. Thank you.
Yesterday was our granddaughter, Ch. Sudhiksha’s Birthday. It is
her tenth birthday. We celebrated it at Saarangi Banquet Hall close to our
house, by inviting all her friends and cousins. Our daughter-in-law, Dr.
Lavanya made all the arrangements for the party and organized it very well. She
conducted a number of games for the children, gave away great many gifts and
entertained them very well.
The attached photographs and Especially
the Video reflect the mood and success of the
party. The names of the children who brought about a great atmosphere and
entertainment to the party are Samiksha, Harshita, Kashish, Shriya, Stuti,
Riddhi, Akhila, Chehak, Jayanthika, Shreeya, Saanvi, Srija, Samarth, Krishiv,
Hriman, Vineet, Srikaran, Darshan, Akhil, Vikyath and Krish.
All children and
elders overwhelmingly enjoyed the party.
