Rise in temperature; IMD issues heatwave warning in Kerala

Thiruvananthapuram: As the heat gets intensified in the state, the Meteorological Department has issued a heatwave warning to the people. The temperature is expected to rise by two to four degrees Celsius above the normal level. A yellow alert has been issued for the districts of Kannur and Kasaragod.

On Tuesday and Wednesday, the temperature in Kannur and Kasaragod may reach 39°C, while in Kozhikode, Malappuram, Thrissur, Palakkad, Kottayam, Kollam and Pathanamthitta, the temperature may rise to 37°C. In Ernakulam and Alappuzha, the temperature may go up to 36°C. Due to the high temperature and humid air, an uncomfortable and oppressive atmosphere is expected. The public is advised to be alert regarding the situation.

Extreme heat can lead to severe health issues such as sunstroke, dehydration, and heat exhaustion. Therefore, the IMD has issued guidelines to be followed during this season. 

• Avoid prolonged direct exposure to sunlight between 11 AM and 3 PM.
• Drink plenty of fresh water, even if you don't feel thirsty.
• Avoid drinks that cause dehydration, such as alcohol, coffee, tea, and carbonated soft drinks, during the day.
• Wear light-colored, loose cotton clothing.
• Wear footwear when going outside, and using an umbrella or cap is advisable.
• Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Use oral rehydration solutions (ORS) and electrolyte drinks.
• There is an increased risk of fires in markets, buildings and waste disposal sites (dumping yards). A fire audit must be conducted, and proper safety precautions should be followed. People residing or working near these areas should be extra cautious.
• Due to the rising heat, there is a risk of forest fires. Those living near forests or engaged in tourism activities must remain cautious and avoid conditions that could trigger fires. Forest department guidelines should be strictly followed.
• Educational institutions should ensure access to clean drinking water and proper ventilation in classrooms. During examination periods, availability of water should also be ensured in exam halls.
• Schools, parents, and authorities must take extra care with students. Avoid scheduling outdoor assemblies or other activities during peak sunlight hours, and ensure students are protected from direct heat.
• Anganwadi centers should take steps to ensure that children are not exposed to extreme heat, with special attention from local authorities and Anganwadi staff.
• Vulnerable groups such as bedridden patients, elderly individuals, pregnant women, children, people with disabilities and those suffering from other illnesses should avoid direct sunlight between 11 AM and 3 PM. Special care should be taken for these individuals as they are more likely to suffer from sunstroke.
• Online food delivery personnel using two-wheelers should be provided with proper clothing and allowed rest during peak heat hours (11 AM to 3 PM) to avoid exposure to high temperatures. The hotels and establishments concerned should ensure the safety of these people.  
• Journalists, police officers and others working during these hours should use umbrellas or other protective gear and stay out of direct sunlight. Ensure access to water to prevent dehydration.
• Organisers of public events, conferences, etc., should ensure that participants have access to water and shade and avoid holding such events between 11 AM and 3 PM, if possible.
• Travelers should take regular breaks and carry water during their journey.
• Workers in construction, agriculture, street vendors and those engaged in physically demanding jobs should adjust their working hours and ensure proper breaks.
• Avoid exposing livestock to the midday sun or leaving them tied in the heat. Ensure that animals and birds have access to water.
• Never leave children or animals in parked vehicles under the sun.
• Use water wisely and store as much water as possible when it rains. Always carry a small bottle of water to prevent dehydration.
• In case of discomfort, rest immediately and seek medical assistance.
• Pay attention to and follow the official warnings issued by the Meteorological Department and the Disaster Management Authority.