Kerala Faces Extreme Heat as UV Index Reaches Dangerous Levels
Thiruvananthapuram – Kerala is currently experiencing extreme heat, with ultraviolet (UV) radiation levels soaring to hazardous levels in multiple districts over the past 24 hours.
A red alert has been issued in Pathanamthitta and Idukki, where UV index levels have reached 11 and 12, marking an extremely high risk of UV exposure.
🚨 Orange alerts have been declared in Kollam, Kottayam, Palakkad, and Malappuram, where UV index levels range between 8 and 10, requiring extreme caution.
⚠️ Yellow alerts have been sounded in Thiruvananthapuram, Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Kozhikode, and Wayanad due to moderate UV levels.
🔹 Heatwave Safety Guidelines Issued
In response to rising temperatures, the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has issued precautionary guidelines to protect public health from the risks of heatstroke, sunburn, and dehydration.
✔️ General Precautions
✅ Avoid direct sun exposure between 11 AM and 3 PM.
✅ Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of clean water, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
✅ Avoid alcohol, coffee, tea, and carbonated beverages during the day, as they can cause dehydration.
✅ Wear loose, light-colored cotton clothing and use protective accessories like umbrellas and hats.
✅ Increase intake of fresh fruits, vegetables, and fluids like ORS (Oral Rehydration Solutions).
🔹 Fire Safety Measures
🔥 High-Risk Areas
Markets, waste disposal sites, and dry forests are at increased risk of fire incidents. Authorities have been advised to conduct fire safety audits and implement strict fire prevention measures.
🔥 Wildfire Prevention
Those living near forests and tourist areas must exercise caution and follow forest department safety guidelines to prevent wildfires.
🔹 Special Guidelines for Schools & Educational Institutions
🏫 Schools must ensure:
✔️ Safe drinking water and proper ventilation in classrooms.
✔️ Rescheduling of outdoor activities to avoid peak heat hours.
✔️ Examination halls are equipped with water facilities.
✔️ Anganwadi centers provide shaded and cool spaces for children.
🔹 Safety Measures for Vulnerable Groups
🚨 People at high risk include:
🔹 Elderly individuals, pregnant women, children, and persons with chronic illnesses should stay indoors between 11 AM and 3 PM.
🔹 Employers of food delivery personnel and outdoor workers must ensure safety precautions and allow rest breaks during peak heat hours.
🔹 Police officers and media personnel working outdoors should use umbrellas and have access to drinking water.
🔹 Travel & Outdoor Work Advisory
✔️ Event organizers must ensure shaded spaces and water supply at public gatherings.
✔️ Construction workers, roadside vendors, and farmers should adjust working hours to avoid extreme heat.
✔️ Travelers should carry water and take frequent breaks to prevent heat exhaustion.
✔️ Livestock owners should ensure animals have access to shaded areas and water.
✔️ Avoid leaving children or pets inside parked vehicles as temperatures inside can rise dangerously.
🔹 Water Conservation & Emergency Response
💧 Residents are urged to:
🔹 Use water responsibly and adopt rainwater harvesting techniques.
🔹 Always carry a small water bottle when stepping outside.
🔹 Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing dizziness, nausea, or weakness due to heat exposure.
