Kerala heat alert: Rising UV Index prompts Statewide precautionary measures

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala is currently experiencing a severe heat wave that has failed to subside despite intermittent summer showers. According to the Meteorological Department, temperatures are projected to rise significantly throughout this month and into the next. Adding to the weather concerns is a dangerous increase in the Ultraviolet (UV) index, prompting the Disaster Management Authority to issue a series of alerts across the state.

An orange alert was recently declared following high UV index recordings at the Idukki Munnar station. Furthermore, yellow alerts have been issued for Wayanad, Kozhikode, Malappuram, Palakkad, Thrissur, Ernakulam, Kottayam, Alappuzha, Pathanamthitta, and Kollam districts. The alert system classifies a UV index of 6 to 7 as "yellow," requiring public precaution, while a reading of 8 to 10 warrants an "orange" alert for extreme caution. A "red alert" is triggered if levels exceed 11, a critical threshold that was reached in Kollam and Idukki last year.

Experts note that UV intensity is particularly high in mountainous and tropical regions. The index can spike even under clear, cloudless skies, while surfaces such as sand and water bodies can further increase the index through the reflection of rays.

Ultraviolet is dangerous

As these high-energy, invisible rays are most potent between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM, health officials warn that prolonged exposure can lead to sunburn, skin diseases, and eye conditions. The risk is significantly higher for cancer patients, individuals with weakened immune systems, and those with pre-existing skin or eye ailments, all of whom are advised to exercise heightened vigilance during this period.