Thiruvananthapuram, 20 April (H.S.):

The India Meteorological Department has issued a heatwave warning across Kerala, placing 12 districts under a yellow alert as temperatures are expected to rise significantly above normal levels.

According to the IMD, Palakkad is likely to record the highest temperature in the State, with the mercury expected to touch 40°C. Kollam may see temperatures up to 39°C, while Kottayam is likely to experience highs of 38°C. In districts including Alappuzha, Pathanamthitta, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur, and Kasaragod, temperatures could rise to around 37°C.

In Thiruvananthapuram, the temperature is forecast to reach up to 36°C—around 3 to 4 degrees Celsius above normal. The IMD has warned that high humidity levels combined with elevated temperatures could lead to hot and uncomfortable weather conditions, particularly in coastal and lowland areas, excluding hilly regions.

Despite the prevailing heat, the IMD has also forecast isolated thunderstorms accompanied by lightning across the State until Wednesday. Several parts of Kerala received rainfall with thunder and gusty winds on Sunday, resulting in damage in some areas.

Authorities have cautioned that lightning poses a serious risk to both human and animal life, and can also damage electrical and communication infrastructure, as well as household appliances connected to power lines. Residents have been urged to exercise extreme caution and follow safety advisories during thunderstorm activity.

With fluctuating weather conditions expected over the next few days, officials have advised the public to stay hydrated, avoid direct exposure to sunlight during peak hours, and remain alert to weather updates.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman