Heat and humidity warning issued for 12 districts in Kerala till Tuesday

KOCHI: India meteorological department (IMD) issued a heat and humidity warning for a rise of 2-3 degrees above normal for 12 districts till Tuesday. Yellow alert for maximum temperatures has been issued for Palakkad, expected to experience mercury levels around 38˚C, and 37˚C at Kollam, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thrissur and Kasaragod districts. Day temperatures would be around 36˚C in Thiruvananthapuram, Alappuzha, Pathanamthitta, Malappuram, Kozhikode and Kannur on Monday and Tuesday. Several places recorded high UV (ultraviolet) index, including Thrithala (9), while others, including Kottarakkara, Konni, Chengannur, Chengannassery, Munnar, Ollur and Ponnani, recorded UV index of 8. Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) also issued a heat warning urging people to stay indoors and avoid direct exposure to the sun during the peak hours of 10am to 3pm. It also issued directions and first aid measures to help children affected by heat stroke. If a child is unconscious, do not give anything to eat or drink. Call for emergency support. Otherwise, bring the child indoors and loosen their clothing. Have the child lie down with slightly raised feet and sponge with cool water. Give frequent sips of cold water. If the child vomits, turn them to their side to prevent choking. Use a fan to increase airflow. According to data recorded in the last 24 hours till Sunday morning, maximum temperatures were above normal in Kottayam district. Palakkad recorded the highest maximum temperature of 38°C while Kannur airport recorded the lowest minimum temperature of 23.2°C.