THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: It's not even the start of summer, but Kerala is sweltering in scorching heat. The average temperature in the state has reached close to 35 degrees Celsius. The average temperature recorded in the state today is 34.5 degrees. It was 32.7 at the same time last year. The state has been experiencing intense heat for the past two days.

Kannur is one of the places in the country with highest recorded temperature- 37.7 degrees Celsius. It is 36.5 degrees in Kochi and 35.7 degrees in Punalur. It is concluded that the El Nino phenomenon is the reason for the heat increase this time. El Nino is a phenomenon that warms the ocean surface.

After a relatively cold January, February has turned hot very quickly. This is causing health problems for people. The lack of summer rain has also caused the temperature to increase. The temperature is likely to increase in the next two months. The minimum temperature is likely to go above 25 degrees and the maximum temperature is likely to touch 38 degrees. When going out during the day, heat protection gears such as umbrellas, non-polyester clothes and drinking water should be used. The disaster management authority has warned that those who work outside the afternoon should also be careful.