Heatwave intensifies in Kerala; State Disaster Management Authority issues advisory

Thiruvananthapuram: With temperatures rising across the state, the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) on Monday issued a public advisory urging people to exercise caution.

The authority warned that high temperatures could lead to serious health problems, including heatstroke, sunburn and dehydration.

In its advisory, the KSDMA outlined a series of preventive measures to minimise health risks and ensure public safety during peak heat conditions.

Key guidelines issued by the authority include:

• Avoid prolonged and direct exposure to sunlight between 11 am and 3 pm.
• Continue drinking water even if not feeling thirsty; consume clean drinking water as much as possible.
• Avoid beverages that cause dehydration, such as alcohol, coffee, tea and carbonated soft drinks, especially during daytime.
• Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured cotton clothing.
• Use footwear while outdoors; carrying an umbrella or wearing a hat is advisable.
• Consume plenty of fruits and vegetables; the use of ORS solutions and traditional drinks such as sambharam (spiced buttermilk) is encouraged.
• The authority also warned of an increased risk of fires in markets, buildings and waste collection and disposal sites, including dumping yards. Fire safety audits should be conducted, and strict safety precautions must be followed. Residents and establishments located near such areas have been asked to remain especially vigilant.
• There is also a heightened risk of forest fires due to extreme heat. People living near forest areas and tourists have been advised to remain cautious, avoid activities that could trigger fires, and strictly follow instructions issued by the Forest Department.
• Educational institutions have been instructed to ensure the availability of safe drinking water and proper ventilation in classrooms. During examinations, drinking water must also be made available in examination halls.
• School authorities and parents have been urged to take special care of students by avoiding outdoor assemblies and events during peak heat hours or rescheduling them appropriately. Schools organising trips must ensure that children are not exposed to direct sunlight between 11 am and 3 pm.
• Local self-government institutions and anganwadi staff have been asked to ensure arrangements that prevent heat exposure for children.
• Special care is required for vulnerable groups such as bedridden patients, senior citizens, pregnant women, children, persons with disabilities and those suffering from chronic illnesses. These groups should strictly avoid direct sunlight between 11 am and 3 pm, as they are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses.
• Companies engaged in online food delivery using two-wheelers have been directed to ensure the safety of delivery personnel during peak afternoon hours. Employers should advise appropriate clothing, allow short rest breaks if required, and take steps to reduce heat exposure.
• Media personnel and police officers on duty during peak hours have been advised to use umbrellas, avoid direct sunlight where possible, and ensure adequate hydration. Departments should provide drinking water to personnel to prevent dehydration.
• Event organisers have been instructed to ensure the availability of drinking water and shaded areas at public functions and conferences, and to avoid scheduling events between 11 am and 3 pm wherever possible.
• Travellers are advised to take sufficient rest during journeys and carry adequate drinking water.
• Construction workers, agricultural labourers, roadside vendors and others engaged in physically demanding work should adjust working hours and ensure regular breaks.
• People should refrain from cattle grazing or tying domestic animals in direct sunlight during peak heat hours. Adequate water should be provided for animals and birds.
• Children and pets should never be left inside parked vehicles.
• The KSDMA further urged the public to use water judiciously, store rainwater wherever possible, and carry a small bottle of drinking water at all times to prevent dehydration. Anyone experiencing discomfort should take immediate rest and seek medical assistance.

People have been advised to closely follow and comply with official warnings and updates issued by the Meteorological Department and the State Disaster Management Authority.