Kerala Braces for Intense Summer Heat with Rising Temperatures and Looming Water Shortages

In the southern Indian state of Kerala, residents are grappling with a relentless heatwave that has persisted for over a month, presenting a daunting challenge for survival. Weather experts predict that this summer will be even hotter than the previous year, exacerbating concerns over dwindling water sources. The town of Kannur recently recorded the highest temperature in the state, reaching 38.4 degrees Celsius, with projections indicating that temperatures may soar to 40 degrees Celsius by the end of March. This grim scenario has raised alarm bells, particularly as numerous water bodies are rapidly depleting, leading to an anticipated surge in the scarcity of drinking water.

As the heatwave intensifies, Monday’s temperature readings across various locations in Kerala reflect the severity of the situation. Kannur Airport recorded 37.2 degrees Celsius, Kottayam at 36.52, Kozhikode at 35.45, Thrissur at 37.5, Punalur in Kollam at 36.8, Alappuzha at 36.1, Palakkad at 37.2, and Thiruvananthapuram at 34.94. The scorching temperatures have prompted concerns about the well-being of the residents and the environment. However, there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon, as weather experts predict the possibility of modest rain in March, offering a respite from the heat. Rainfall is anticipated after the second week of March, with the weather department forecasting the onset of the first summer rains towards the end of the month. This anticipated relief could bring relief to the parched land and its inhabitants, providing a much-needed break from the oppressive heatwave.