IMD Issues Heat Wave Orange Alert for Palakkad, Kollam, Thrissur; Temperatures May Touch 41°C

Thiruvananthapuram: The India Meteorological Department has warned of severe heat wave conditions in Keralam, issuing Orange Alerts for Palakkad, Kollam, and Thrissur districts for today and tomorrow (April 23 and 24), with temperatures expected to rise up to 5°C above normal levels. The State Disaster Management Authority has urged the public to exercise extreme caution.

Palakkad is expected to record the highest temperature at up to 41°C, while Kollam and Thrissur may reach 40°C. Kottayam, Pathanamthitta, Ernakulam, and Kozhikode are forecast to touch 38°C, while Alappuzha, Malappuram, Kannur, and Kasaragod may reach 37°C. Thiruvananthapuram is expected to record up to 36°C. Similar conditions are forecast to persist on April 25 and 26 as well. The combination of rising temperatures and high atmospheric humidity will make conditions especially oppressive across the state, with the exception of highland areas.

The Health Department has issued the following guidance: avoid direct sunlight between 11 am and 3 pm; drink water at regular intervals even without feeling thirsty; the elderly, pregnant women, and children must take special precautions; and anyone showing symptoms of heat exhaustion or heatstroke should seek medical attention immediately. The public is also advised to wear light-coloured, loose cotton clothing and to rest in shade during outdoor activities.