Kerala is likely to experience a rise in temperatures over the next two days, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warning that maximum temperatures could be 3 to 4°C above normal in parts of the state from September 7 to 9.
The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has issued a public advisory cautioning people about the health risks associated with the rising heat, including sunstroke, sunburn and dehydration. People have been advised to remain hydrated and take measures to avoid prolonged exposure to heat.
The warning comes as several parts of Kerala have already recorded temperatures significantly above normal for this time of the year.
Punalur in Kollam recorded a maximum temperature of 36.2°C on Monday, September 7, which was 4.3°C above normal. Kottayam recorded 35.2°C, 4.4°C above normal, the highest departure among the stations listed.
Palakkad recorded 34.2°C, 3.9°C above normal, while the Cochin International Airport station recorded 34.1°C, 3.4°C above normal.
In Thiruvananthapuram city, the maximum temperature was 33.8°C, 2.8°C above normal. Vellanikkara also recorded 33.8°C, which was 3.7°C above normal.
The heat was also felt in northern Kerala. Kozhikode recorded 33°C and Kannur 32.7°C, with both stations recording temperatures more than 2°C above normal.
The combination of weak monsoon activity and above normal temperatures has made the beginning of September unusually hot in several parts of Kerala.
In Lakshadweep, Amini recorded the highest maximum temperature of 33.4°C, 3.4°C above normal. Minicoy recorded 33°C, while Agathi recorded 31.6°C.