Palakkad records country's highest temperature at 38°C

Palakkad: Palakkad recorded a daytime temperature of 38°C on Saturday. According to official data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), this was the highest temperature recorded in the country on that day. Even before the peak summer months, Palakkad is already experiencing extreme heat.

Dr MS Sreejith, Senior Scientist and Head of the Energy Division at Mundur IRTC, stated that the district has been witnessing a similar trend for the past three years. In February 2024, the temperature had already reached 39.5°C. He attributed the early rise in heat to the geographical features of the Palakkad Gap. Temperatures are expected to climb further, potentially exceeding 41°C by mid-March, he added.

Earlier, due to rising temperatures across the state, the Labour and Skills Department adjusted outdoor working hours for those in hot environments until May 10. A severe heatwave is expected across the country for the next three and a half months.