KSDMA issues ultraviolet radiation alert

Kochi: Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) issued an ultraviolet radiation alert for the state, as several districts recorded a UV index between five and seven, while Idukki recorded eight on Friday.Cial Kochi recorded a 2.5C rise in its maximum temperature to 36.9C, against its normal of 34.4C. Kottayam and Kozhikode saw a two-degree rise above their normal and saw mercury levels touch 36C and 35.5C respectively. Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kozhikode and Palakkad recorded a UV index of seven. High humidity of more than 60% was recorded in Idukki and Kozhikode. KSDMA advised the public to avoid direct sunlight exposure between 11am and 3pm. It said outdoor workers, including construction workers, farmers, traffic police and notably, gig workers delivering food on two-wheelers, should exercise caution while being exposed to direct sun for long hours. tnn