The India Meteorological Department has issued a heatwave warning for most parts of Kerala, with temperatures expected to climb 3–4 degrees above normal in several districts even as isolated thunderstorms and lightning are likely to continue through Wednesday.
Thiruvananthapuram, April 20 — Kerala is set to experience intense summer conditions over the next few days, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) placing 12 districts under a yellow alert for heatwave-like conditions. The warning comes as daytime temperatures are expected to remain significantly above seasonal averages across much of the state.
Heatwave Warning Across 12 Districts
According to the IMD’s latest forecast, Palakkad is expected to be the hottest district, with temperatures likely to touch 40°C.
Other districts are also expected to record unusually high temperatures:
- Kollam: up to 39°C
- Kottayam: around 38°C
- Alappuzha, Pathanamthitta, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur and Kasaragod:around 37°C
- Thiruvananthapuram: up to 36°C
Meteorologists said temperatures in the capital region could remain 3 to 4 degrees Celsius above normal, increasing discomfort levels, especially in coastal belts and low-lying areas.
High Humidity to Worsen Conditions
The combination of high temperatures and elevated humidity is likely to make conditions feel even hotter than the actual temperature reading.
Officials warned that coastal and plains regions may experience oppressive heat, while hilly areas are expected to remain comparatively cooler.
Such weather can increase the risk of heat exhaustion, dehydration, and heatstroke, particularly for outdoor workers, elderly residents, and children.
Thunderstorms and Lightning Likely Till Wednesday
Even as the heat intensifies, the IMD has forecast isolated thunderstorms with lightning across Kerala until Wednesday.
Several parts of the state witnessed rainfall accompanied by thunder and strong winds on Sunday, with reports of localised damage emerging from some areas.
The weather pattern reflects a typical pre-monsoon phase in Kerala, where high daytime heat is often followed by evening thunderstorms.
Safety Advisory Issued
Authorities have urged residents to remain cautious during thunderstorm activity, noting that lightning can pose a serious threat to life and property.
Officials said lightning strikes can affect:
- people and livestock
- power and communication lines
- household electrical appliances connected to the mains supply
Residents have been advised to stay indoors during lightning events and avoid open spaces, water bodies, and isolated trees.
Public Advisory: Stay Hydrated and Avoid Peak Heat
With weather conditions expected to fluctuate over the coming days, the public has been advised to take precautionary measures.
Key recommendations include:
- drink water regularly to prevent dehydration
- avoid direct sunlight during afternoon hours
- limit strenuous outdoor activity
- monitor official weather bulletins for updates
- use protective clothing and umbrellas when outdoors
Why This Matters
The simultaneous occurrence of extreme heat and thunderstorms highlights the unstable weather conditions currently affecting Kerala during the summer transition period.
Such forecasts are particularly important for daily commuters, agricultural workers, schools, and local administrations as they prepare for both heat-related health risks and sudden storm activity over the next few days.
inputs and images : Hindustan samachar
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Edited By D.Rishidhar Reddy
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