Thiruvananthapuram, 23 April (H.S.): The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heatwave warning for parts of Kerala, placing Kollam, Thrissur, and Palakkad districts under an orange alert for Thursday and Friday, as temperatures are expected to rise significantly above normal levels.

According to the weather agency, Palakkad is likely to bear the brunt of the heat, with maximum temperatures expected to soar up to 41°C over the next two days. Kollam and Thrissur districts are also forecast to experience intense heat, with mercury levels touching around 40°C. The IMD has cautioned that such conditions could pose health risks, particularly to vulnerable groups including the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing medical conditions.

Several other districts have been placed under a yellow alert due to rising temperatures. Kottayam, Pathanamthitta, Ernakulam, and Kozhikode may see temperatures reaching up to 38°C, while Alappuzha, Malappuram, Kannur, and Kasaragod are expected to record highs of around 37°C. In the state capital Thiruvananthapuram, temperatures may climb to 36°C.

The IMD has warned that temperatures across Kerala could remain 4 to 5 degrees Celsius above normal, with the hot spell likely to persist until Sunday. Over the weekend, Palakkad may continue to experience temperatures around 40°C, while Kollam could record 39°C. Thrissur and Kottayam may see highs of 38°C, and several other districts are expected to remain in the 37°C range.

High humidity levels are likely to worsen the situation, leading to uncomfortable weather conditions across most parts of the state, particularly in coastal and lowland regions. Authorities have urged residents to take precautions, avoid direct exposure to sunlight during peak hours, and stay adequately hydrated.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman