Kerala braces for heat wave conditions as CM issues warning

Thiruvananthapuram, Apr 14 (PTI) Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday cautioned that temperatures are set to rise sharply across the state in the coming days, even as the State Disaster Management Authority issued a comprehensive public advisory to prevent heat-related illnesses.

In a Facebook post, the CM said temperatures could reach 40 degrees Celsius in Palakkad, 39 degrees Celsius in Kollam, and range between 36 and 37 degrees Celsius in other districts.

He also warned of rising ultraviolet (UV) index levels and urged people to avoid direct exposure to sunlight between 10 am and 3 pm.

Amid the heatwave conditions, the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA), in a social media post, said extreme heat could lead to serious health conditions such as sunstroke, heat exhaustion, and dehydration, and called on the public to take adequate precautions.

According to the advisory, people should avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight between 11 am and 3 pm and stay hydrated by drinking sufficient quantities of clean water even when not thirsty.

It also advised avoiding alcohol, coffee, tea, and carbonated drinks during the daytime, as they may contribute to dehydration.

Wearing loose, light-coloured cotton clothing and using protective gear such as umbrellas, hats, and footwear while stepping outdoors has also been recommended.

The authority further suggested increasing the intake of fruits, vegetables, and oral rehydration solutions (ORS) to maintain hydration levels.

Highlighting fire risks, the KSDMA cautioned that markets, buildings, and waste dumping yards could be more vulnerable to fires during extreme heat conditions, and called for fire audits and strict safety precautions, especially for those residing near such locations.

The advisory also noted the increased likelihood of forest fires, urging residents near forest areas and tourists to remain vigilant and strictly follow the instructions of the Forest Department.

Special guidelines have been issued for educational institutions, directing authorities to ensure access to clean drinking water and proper ventilation in classrooms and examination halls.

Schools have been asked to avoid outdoor activities such as assemblies during peak heat hours and to take extra care while organising student trips.

Local self-government bodies and anganwadi workers have been instructed to ensure that children are not exposed to excessive heat.

Vulnerable groups, including the elderly, pregnant women, children, persons with disabilities, and those with existing illnesses, have been advised to remain indoors during peak hours.

The KSDMA also urged employers, particularly those engaging delivery personnel and outdoor workers, to ensure safety measures, appropriate clothing, and rest breaks during working hours.

Police personnel and media workers have also been advised to use umbrellas and ensure adequate hydration while on duty.

Event organisers have been asked to provide drinking water and shade at public gatherings and, if possible, avoid scheduling events between 11 am and 3 pm.

Travellers have been advised to carry water and take adequate rest during journeys, while labourers, farmers, and street vendors have been urged to reschedule work and ensure sufficient breaks.

The advisory stressed that animals and pets should not be left in direct sunlight or inside parked vehicles, and that adequate water should be provided to them.

It also emphasised water conservation and rainwater harvesting measures to address potential shortages.

The authority further warned about the harmful effects of prolonged exposure to UV rays, which can cause skin and eye-related issues, noting that the highest UV index is typically recorded between 10 am and 3 pm.

Those engaged in outdoor occupations, including fishermen, transport workers, bikers, and tourists, as well as individuals with skin or eye conditions and weakened immunity, have been urged to take extra precautions, including the use of sunglasses, hats, and full-coverage clothing.

Meanwhile, Vijayan also cautioned against the spread of misinformation regarding extreme temperatures, noting that messages claiming temperatures could rise to 45–55 degrees Celsius in the state are baseless and not issued by the India Meteorological Department.

He urged the public to rely only on official sources for weather updates and to verify information through toll-free numbers 1070, 1077, and 1079.

The KSDMA advised people to seek immediate medical attention in case of discomfort and to closely follow official warnings issued by the India Meteorological Department and disaster management authorities. PTI