Scorching heat before summer; temperature reaching 38 degrees; summer diseases spreading

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: With ten days left for the start of summer, Kerala's weather has turned on its heat. Summer temperatures average around 36 degrees Celsius in March. This time the temperature in Kannur crossed 37 degrees Celsius in February itself. The temperature in Kozhikode is likely to rise up to 38 degrees in the coming days. It may reach up to 36 degrees in Thiruvananthapuram. There is a sudden variance of three to four degrees Celsius.

If this situation continues, the summer heat may cross 40 degree Celsius. The water level in reservoirs and wells are starting to fall. If there is no summer rain next month, the water shortage will be severe. The health department has suggested that work in open places should be given a break from 11 am to 3 pm.

Current temperatures are causing health problems. Chickenpox is rampant. Many people have started suffering from other summer diseases. Till the 17th of this month, 1701 cases of chickenpox were reported. 19,632 people sought treatment for diarrhoea. Jaundice is also reported.

The number of people seeking treatment for sunburn is also increasing. The UV rays that hit the skin while sunbathing can cause the skin to become red, itchy, and dehydrated.

El Niño, the villain

The El Nino phenomenon is the cause of the unseasonably warm weather. El Niño is a phenomenon that causes unusual warming of the sea surface in the equatorial Pacific Ocean. As the hot air from it spreads to other areas, the temperature rises.

Kannur is the hottest in the country

• Kannur has recorded the highest temperature in the country for the last nine consecutive days. (37.9 degrees Celsius).
• The state is currently experiencing an average temperature of 34 to 37 degrees Celsius. Last year at this time it was 32 to 34 degrees Celsius.

Tea, coffee and alcohol should be reduced

• Tea, coffee and alcohol should be reduced so that body temperature does not increase. Spicy, sour and spicy foods should be controlled. Eat food cooked in clean water at home.
• Be careful not to be exposed to strong sun. Use sunscreen lotion and powder when going out. Use an umbrella
• Drink plenty of water and shower twice. Wear loose cotton clothes.

There is a possibility of rain in March. El Nino phenomenon is active. The temperature will rise further.

-Rajeevan Erikkulam

Meteorologist, Disaster Management Authority

Summer diseases will spread when we move to extremely hot climates. Avoid direct sunlight and drink plenty of clean water.'

-Dr AV Jayakrishnan,

Former State President of IMA