Two-day lockdown-like vigilance; alert issued to people of Kerala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The disaster management authority has issued a high alert as the heat continues to be unbearable in the state. Although there is no heatwave warning today, the authorities have informed that strict precautions should be taken as the temperature is likely to rise.

The temperature in Palakkad may rise up to 40 degrees Celsius. Other districts are also likely to experience higher than normal temperatures. The advisory is to observe vigilance similar to the lockdown during the day. Avoid going out except for essential matters. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has informed that summer rains are likely to intensify in the state from day after tomorrow to relieve the scorching heat.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has called a high-level meeting today to assess the heatwave situation and work restrictions during the midday sun. Ministers, chief ssecretary and disaster management authority officials will participate in the meeting, which will be held online at 11 am today. The meeting will decide on the necessary further steps after assessing the situation in various districts. The health department has also warned the public to take special care to avoid direct sun exposure between 11 am and 3 pm.