Lethal summer: Two collapse and die as Kerala battles record heat and rising snake attacks

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Disaster Management Authority has issued a high-alert warning across the state following a series of suspected sunstroke fatalities. This warning comes after eight individuals across various districts were treated for heat-related illnesses yesterday, following the recent death of Sanalkumar in Kannur.

Recent Fatalities

Kollam District

Baby Philip (84), a retired Air Force veteran from Kunnikode, was discovered deceased in his farm at approximately 11:30 am. Witnesses noted distinct red spots on his face and hands, a common symptom of severe heat exhaustion. He was rushed to a private hospital where death was confirmed, and his body has since been moved to the Paripally Medical College Hospital. He is survived by his wife, Omana, and three children: Rigo, Rinkle, and Tittu.

Palakkad District

In Pattambi, Basheer (60) collapsed in the compound near his home in Thottungal City. Although local residents acted quickly to transport him to the Pattambi Taluk Hospital, he could not be revived. While officials have yet to formally confirm the cause of death, initial medical assessments point strongly toward sunstroke. Basheer, who had lived alone for many years, remains at the Taluk Hospital morgue pending further investigation.

Surge in snakebite incidents amid rising temperatures

The intense summer heat has led to a worrying increase in snake encounters across the state, as reptiles emerge from their burrows to seek cooler shelter. In the last 24 hours, four people were bitten in separate incidents, with several others reporting narrow escapes.

District reports

Alappuzha

Two incidents were reported in Alappuzha. Anamika (15), a student from Kayamkulam, was bitten by a snake while near a pipe in her backyard. She is currently recovering and reported to be out of danger at Nooranad KCM Hospital.

In another incident in Ambalapuzha, Sally (51) was bitten by a baby viper at her doorstep at approximately 12:30 am on Friday. Sally had stepped outside during a power outage when the snake struck her leg. In a swift reaction, she killed the snake, which relatives then brought to the hospital to assist doctors with identification. Her condition is currently listed as satisfactory.

Kottayam

In Pala Kadanad, Jiji Thampi, a Kavumkandam ward member and former panchayat president, was bitten by a viper near his residence. He is currently undergoing medical treatment.

Palakkad

An Anganwadi worker in Cherpulassery was rushed to the hospital following a snakebite. Fortunately, hospital officials confirmed that the snake involved was non-venomous, and the worker is stable.

Narrow escapes

In Kalady, Ernakulam, a young girl narrowly avoided a dangerous encounter when she discovered a snake hiding inside a plant pot in her backyard.