Kerala faces soaring heat and high UV levels, IMD issues yellow alerts statewide, KSDMA issues orange alerts in four areas and urges people to avoid peak hours of 10am-3pm.
According to the IMD, temperatures in Palakkad will likely touch 40 degrees and Kollam may witness over 39 degree and Kottayam up to 38 degrees. (Image: PTI File)
As temperature continued to soar across Kerala on Wednesday, the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has urged the public to take precautions against high ultraviolet (UV) radiation levels while issuing orange alert in four locations.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), temperatures in Palakkad will likely touch 40 degrees and Kollam may witness over 39 degree and Kottayam up to 38 degrees.
Amid rising temperature, the IMD has issued yellow alert in all districts except Wayanad and Idukki until April 19.
Meanwhile, the KSDMA has advised people to avoid direct exposure to sunlight during peak hours of 10 am-3pm. “Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays can lead to sunburn, skin and eye diseases, and other health issues,” it said. The advisory has been issued especially for people engaged in outdoor work, fishermen, gig workers, tourists, bike riders, cancer patients, and those with low immunity.
According to Onmanorama, the Ultraviolet Index (UVI), which measures UV radiation on a scale of 1 to 11, has reached concerning levels in several parts of the state over the past 24 hours.
The KSDMA has issued an orange alert in Konni in Pathanamthitta and Munnar in Idukki, where the UVI touched 9, and Changanassery in Kottayam and Chengannur in Alappuzha, where it stood at 8.
Yellow alert has been issued in locations that have recorded a UVI of 7, including Kottarakkara (Kollam), Thrithala (Palakkad), Ollur (Thrissur), Ponnani (Malappuram), and Kalamassery (Ernakulam), while Beypore (Kozhikode) and Mananthavady (Wayanad) recorded a UVI of 6.
According to the KSDMA, high-altitude and tropical regionals are likely to receive high UV radiation.
Previously, the KSDMA flagged a widely circulated WhatsApp message warning of dangerously high temperatures between 45°C and 55°C in Kerala, as misinformation intended to create unnecessary panic during the summer season.
Advisory: Awareness For Workers And Employers
Authorities have stressed the importance of spreading awareness about heat-related risks, especially among outdoor workers and those exposed to prolonged sun exposure.
For Employers And Managers:
- Ensure proper ventilation and adequate airflow at workplaces
- Schedule regular breaks for workers
- Adjust working hours to avoid peak heat periods
- Monitor employees for early signs of heat-related illness
For Workers:
- Stay well-hydrated by drinking sufficient water
- Consume light and nutritious meals
- Take breaks in shaded or cooler areas
- Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing
- Remain alert to symptoms of heat stress
- Recognising Early Signs Of Heat Stress
People are advised to watch for warning signs that may indicate heat-related illness, including:
- Body temperature exceeding 40°C (104°F)
- Severe headache, nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness, fainting or anxiety
- Rapid heartbeat or breathing
- Hot, flushed and dry skin
First Aid Measures In Case Of Heat Illness
In case of suspected heatstroke or severe heat stress, immediate action is crucial:
- Call emergency medical services without delay
- Move the affected individual to a cool or shaded place
- Remove excess clothing to help the body cool down
- Apply cool, damp cloths to the head, neck and underarms
April 15, 2026, 17:44 IST
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