Northern districts should brace for scorching heat

Kozhikode: Northern districts of the state should brace for a surge in temperature levels, the Kerala Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has warned.

The temperature can go up by 8 degree Celsius from the average by Tuesday in Kozhikode, Palakkad, Thrissur and Malappuram districts, according to the KSDMA alert.

Temperature is likely to rise in other parts of the state also, where the variation would be in the scale of two to four degree Celsius from the average temperature.

The KSDMA alert came after reviewing the reports of the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

According to a United Nations report released in February this year, 2018 was the fourth hottest year globally, with extreme weather conditions wreaking havoc.

The UN report had cited the August 2018 floods in Kerala, the worst since 1924. The deluge forced more than a million people into relief camps. More than 450 deaths were reported.

Restrictions for labourers

On February 26, the state labour department imposed restrictions on engaging labourers for outdoor jobs.

The labour commissioner had stated that those who are working on day shifts should be given a break from noon to 3pm, in view of the steady rise in temperature in the state and chances of sunstroke.

However, this was not applicable to the areas 3,000 feet above sea level and not prone to sunstroke.

The KSDMA said people have to take certain steps to avoid sunstroke, including avoiding direct exposure to sun from 11am to 3pm.

It also urged people to carry a bottle of water, consume maximum quantity of water and to wear loose and light colour cotton dress.

School authorities and parents have been urged to be extra careful as annual and public examinations have been announced.

Various alerts have been issued by KSDMA and health and labour departments.