Temperature similar to summer in Kerala, to rise to 4 degrees, yellow alert issued

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala is boiling in the heat of a scorching summer. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that the temperature will increase in Kerala in the coming days. The temperature is likely to rise by two to four degrees Celsius above normal. The highest temperature in the country was recorded at Kannur airport yesterday. The temperature was recorded at 37.2 degrees Celsius. A yellow alert was issued in Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram and Wayanad yesterday due to the temperature. Moreover, there is no rain warning in any of the districts presently.

The IMD pointed that prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays (UV rays) on the body can cause sunburn, skin diseases, eye diseases and other health issues. Therefore, it has also advised the public to take safety precautions.

Alert issued

• The highest ultraviolet index is recorded between 10 am and 3 pm. Therefore, avoid direct sunlight on the body for a long time then as much as possible.

• People who work outdoors, fishermen engaged in sea and inland fishing, those involved in water transport, bikers, tourists, people with skin diseases, eye diseases, cancer patients, and other groups with low immunity should be especially careful.

• Try to use a hat, umbrella, and sunglasses when going out during the day. It is advisable to use cotton clothes that cover the entire body.

• Try to rest in the shade during breaks and when indulged in other activities.
  
• The UV index is generally high in mountainous areas and tropical areas. Even if there is a clear sky without clouds, there may be a high UV index. In addition, since surfaces such as water bodies and sand reflect ultraviolet rays, the UV index will also be high in such areas.