Sea could advance significantly on Saturday due to extreme heat, govt agencies issue warning

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Extreme caution has been advised as the extreme heat has scorched the sea as well. Kerala coast is on red alert due to the possibility of heavy waves and sea rage today. The reason is the recurring phenomenon of 'kallakkadal' (swell waves). A yellow alert has also been announced in three districts in view of the heat wave.

This situation will continue till next Tuesday, according to the Meteorological Department and INCOIS, an oceanographic research institute. Red alert has been announced on the coasts from 2.30 am today to 11.30 pm tomorrow. The wave will rise up to one and a half meters. There is a possibility of inundation in low-lying areas. Two weeks ago there was a sea attack in Kerala due to swell waves. This could be more severe today. The sea can take up to 200 meters into the land.

Day temperature in the state is 36-41 degrees Celsius. Palakkad, Thrissur and Kozhikode districts are on yellow alert from today till 7. Palakkad had a heat wave for five days and last two days in April. Palakkad temperature was 40.4 degrees yesterday.

So far five people have died due to sunstroke in the state. On the day of the election, ten people collapsed and died.

Only Thaikattussery in Alappuzha and Kumarakom in Kottayam received light summer rain yesterday. There has been no summer rain from Thrissur to Kasaragod for a month. Summer rains are expected to intensify in the third week of this month. Approximate dates for monsoon can be known only after May 15.

For those near coasts

1. Stay away from the coast as directed by the authorities
2. Fishing boats, boats etc. should be moored at a safe distance

3. Travel to the beach and beach entertainment should be completely avoided

4. Do not enter the sea after 10 pm including fishermen

Protection from the heat

1. Drink water frequently even if you are not thirsty

2. Do not work in the sun during the day between 11 and 3

3. Avoid collapsing

4. Umbrella should be kept warm or cloth should be wrapped around the head

Heat claim lives of 497 cows

In a first in history, 497 cows have died in the last three months in the state due to heat.

Highest number of cows died in Kollam district - 10. Lowest in Kannur - 3. Daily milk production decreased by 6.5 lakh liters due to increased heat.