Scorching Heat Expected; Yellow Alert in 12 Districts of the State

Thiruvananthapuram: The temperature in the state is expected to rise in the coming days, prompting the Central Meteorological Department to issue a yellow alert in 12 districts, effective until tomorrow. The alert applies to all districts except Idukki and Wayanad.

Temperatures are likely to reach 38°C in Palakkad, 37°C in Kollam, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, and Kasaragod, and 36°C in Thiruvananthapuram, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Kannur, with an additional increase of 2–3°C in these areas.

The State Disaster Management Authority has advised people to remain alert due to the rising heat. Along with the temperature, ultraviolet (UV) radiation levels are also increasing. An orange alert has been issued in six locations—Kottarakara (Kollam), Konni (Pathanamthitta), Chengannur (Alappuzha), Changanassery (Kottayam), Thrithala (Palakkad), and Ponnani (Malappuram)—where the highest UV index was recorded in the past 24 hours.

Yellow alerts for UV exposure have been declared in Munnar (Idukki), Kalamassery (Ernakulam), Ollur (Thrissur), Bepur (Kozhikode), and Mananthady (Wayanad).Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays can lead to skin diseases, eye problems, and other health issues, such as sunburn.

Instructions:

The highest UV index is usually recorded between 10 AM and 3 PM. Avoid direct exposure to sunlight for long periods during these hours.

People engaged in outdoor work, fishermen involved in sea or inland fishing, those in water transport, bikers, tourists, individuals with skin or eye diseases, cancer patients, and others with low immunity should take special precautions.

When going outdoors during the day, it is recommended to use a hat, umbrella, and sunglasses. Wearing cotton clothing that covers the entire body is advisable.

During travel, try to rest in shaded areas whenever possible.

In hilly areas and tropical regions, the UV index is generally high. Residents of these regions should take extra care to protect themselves from UV exposure.