Kerala sizzles: Heat warning extended to all districts except Idukki and Wayanad

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: As temperatures continue to soar across Kerala, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Yellow Alert for 12 districts today. The alert is in effect for all districts except Idukki and Wayanad.

Temperature Highlights

• Highest Recorded: Palakkad reached 39°C, followed by Kollam at 38°C.
• Current Trend: Temperatures across the state are currently 2°C to 3°C above the seasonal average.

Forecast for Today and Tomorrow

The IMD predicts that the intense heat will persist:

• 39°C: Palakkad
• 38°C: Kollam
• 37°C: Thiruvananthapuram, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, and Thrissur.
• 36°C: Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur, and Kasaragod.

Advisory and Health Risks

Due to the combination of high temperatures and high humidity, weather conditions will remain hot and oppressive in most areas, except for the hilly regions.

Health Warning: Exposure to extreme heat can lead to serious conditions, including heatstroke, sunburn, and severe dehydration. The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) urges the public to strictly follow safety guidelines, particularly avoiding direct sunlight between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM, staying hydrated, and wearing protective clothing.

Summer Heat Safety Guidelines

• Avoid Direct Sunlight: Avoid staying under direct sunlight for long periods between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM.
• Stay Hydrated: Continue to drink water even if you don't feel thirsty. Drink as much pure water as possible.
• Avoid Dehydrating Drinks: Avoid beverages like alcohol, coffee, tea, and carbonated soft drinks during the day, as they can cause dehydration.
• Dress Appropriately: Wear loose-fitting, light-colored cotton clothes.
• Protective Gear: Wear footwear when going outside. It is advisable to use an umbrella or a hat.
• Dietary Habits: Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Encourage the use of ORS solution, buttermilk, etc.
• Fire Safety: The risk of fire is high in markets, buildings, and waste disposal centres (dumping yards). Fire audits should be conducted, and proper safety precautions must be taken. Those living or running establishments near such areas should remain extra vigilant.
• Forest Fire Prevention: There is an increased risk of forest fires as heat rises. Tourists and people living near forest areas must be especially cautious. Avoid situations that could trigger a forest fire and strictly follow the instructions of the Forest Department.
• Educational Institutions: Schools and colleges must ensure pure drinking water and proper ventilation in classrooms. During exam seasons, water availability must be ensured in examination halls.
• Student Care: School authorities and parents should pay special attention to students. Avoid assemblies and other programs that expose children to excessive sunlight, or reschedule them. Schools taking children on field trips must ensure they are not exposed to direct heat between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM.
• Anganwadis: Respective Panchayat authorities and Anganwadi staff must take special care to implement arrangements that protect children from the heat.
• Vulnerable Groups: Bedridden patients, the elderly, pregnant women, children, persons with disabilities, and those suffering from other illnesses must take extra care to avoid direct sunlight between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Special attention is required for them as they are more prone to heatstroke.
• Delivery Personnel: Delivery firms must ensure the safety of personnel delivering food on two-wheelers during midday (11:00 AM to 3:00 PM). They should be advised to wear heat-appropriate clothing and be allowed to rest for a while during their trips if necessary.
• Media and Police: Journalists and police officers should use umbrellas and avoid direct sun exposure during this time (11:00 AM to 3:00 PM). Help prevent dehydration by providing drinking water to officers on duty.
• Public Events: Organisers of public events and meetings must ensure that participants have access to adequate drinking water and shade. Avoid holding meetings between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM as much as possible.
• Travellers: It is best for travellers to continue their journey with necessary rest breaks. Always carry water.
• Manual Labourers: Construction workers, agricultural labourers, street vendors, and those engaged in other strenuous work should adjust their working hours and ensure adequate rest during work.
• Livestock and Pets: Avoid letting cattle graze in the midday sun and do not leave pets tied up in the heat. Ensure water availability for animals and birds.
• Vehicle Safety: Never leave children or pets inside parked vehicles.
• Water Conservation: Measures should be taken to use water without wasting it and to harvest maximum rainwater when it rains. Always carry a small bottle of drinking water to prevent dehydration.
• Medical Help: If you feel any physical discomfort, rest immediately and seek medical assistance.
• Official Updates: Pay attention to and follow the official warnings issued by the Meteorological Department and the Disaster Management Authority.