Kerala Braces for Intense Summer Heat with Equinox and El Niño Impact

Kerala is set to experience an exceptionally hot summer, with weather forecasts warning of rising temperatures attributed to the equinox phenomenon and the impact of El Niño. The equinox, occurring on March 22-23, when the sun is directly above the equator, is expected to elevate temperatures significantly. The current temperature, ranging between 35-38 degrees Celsius, may soar to 37-40 degrees Celsius in all districts. Factors contributing to the heat include the El Niño phenomenon, escalating temperatures in the Arabian Sea, and human activities like construction and deforestation.

Heat Alert and Impact: A yellow alert has been issued for nine districts, namely Kollam, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Palakkad, Kozhikode, Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, Thrissur, and Kannur, indicating extreme heat conditions. Temperatures in these districts may rise by 2-4 degrees. Health experts emphasize precautions against sun exposure, as continuous high temperatures pose risks of sunburn and dehydration. The impact is not limited to humans, as animals and agriculture also face potential harm.

Summer Rains and Concerns: Meteorologists anticipate summer rains in mid-March, providing some relief, but the overall outlook indicates a scorching season. Last year witnessed a scarcity of monsoon, spring, and winter in Kerala. The health risks associated with prolonged heat exposure, including increased prevalence of diseases, underscore the need for public awareness and protective measures.

District-wise Temperature Expectations:

Kollam: 38°C

Kottayam: 38°C

Ernakulam: 37°C

Alappuzha: 37°C

Thiruvananthapuram: 37°C

Thrissur: 36°C

Palakkad: 36°C

Malappuram: 36°C

Kozhikode: 36°C

Kannur: 36°C

As Kerala prepares for an intense summer, staying informed and adopting necessary precautions become imperative for residents and visitors alike.