Kerala Scorches; Disaster Management Authority Warns Against Outdoor Exposure From 11 AM to 3 PM

Thiruvananthapuram: With temperatures rising sharply across Kerala, the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority has issued a high alert, urging people to take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses.

The alert comes as several districts are recording temperatures 2 to 4 degrees Celsius above normal even before the peak summer season. The authority warned that the risk of heatstroke, sunburn and dehydration has increased and asked the public to strictly follow safety guidelines.

People have been advised to avoid direct exposure to the sun between 11 am and 3 pm, when ultraviolet radiation is at its strongest. They have also been asked to drink water at regular intervals, even if they do not feel thirsty.

The authority has advised people to avoid alcohol, tea, coffee and carbonated drinks during the daytime, as these can cause dehydration. Wearing loose, light-coloured cotton clothes and using umbrellas or hats while going outdoors have also been recommended.

Workers who spend long hours under the sun, including construction workers, farmers and roadside vendors, have been asked to adjust their work schedules and ensure adequate rest during the afternoon. Schools have been directed to ensure the availability of safe drinking water for students.

The authority has also advised against holding assemblies and other programmes that require children to stand in the sun. Drinking water should be made available in examination halls. Elderly persons, pregnant women, children and those with existing health conditions have been asked to take special care to avoid exposure to direct sunlight during peak hours.

With rising temperatures increasing the risk of forest fires, people living near forest areas and tourists have been asked to remain cautious. Fire audits have been recommended at markets and waste dumping sites to prevent fire accidents.

People have also been advised not to keep domestic animals tied in direct sunlight and to place drinking water in shaded areas for birds and animals, the authority said.