THIRUVANANTHAPURAM/KOCHI: The state is experiencing scorching heat even during winter. Kannur district recorded the highest temperature in the state- 37.2 degrees Celsius. During the first week of this month, 32 to 37 degrees Celsius were recorded during the day and 23-25 degrees Celsius at night, including in the hilly areas. This is two to 4 degrees higher than normal. This is the second year that winter has been so hot. Last year in December the temperature was as high as 37.5. When the rains arrived in January, the temperature returned to normal. The forecast of the Met department that there is no chance of rain in January this time has also caused concern. In many places, water level in water tanks and wells reached a low level.

Meteorologists say that there is a possibility that the temperature will rise in the coming days. An increase in atmospheric humidity in proportion to the rise in temperature can make it feel warmer than it actually is.

Labourers working in open areas are most affected by the rising heat. They should take precautions against sunstroke, dehydration and sunburn.

Reason for the temperature change

Climate change and the effects of global warming are causing temperature fluctuations. The combination of El Nino, Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) and weak northerly winds has led to an increase in atmospheric temperatures. This will continue in February. The sun is harsher in the coastal areas than in the hilly areas.

Yesterday's high temperature was in degrees Celsius

Kannur - 37.2

Thiruvananthapuram City-35

Kozhikode-35

Kottayam – 35

Punalur-35

CIAL Kochi -34.4

27% excess rainfall during Northeast Monsoon season

While 37 percent less rain was recorded during the south east monsoon, the northeast monsoon provided 27 percent more rain this time. Pathanamthitta district received the highest rainfall. An increase of 95 percent over the average. 1220.2 mm of rain was received where the average rainfall was 624.7 mm. Thiruvananthapuram received 836.6 mm instead of the average of 548.5 mm. An increase of 53 percent.