Thiruvananthapuram, 07 September (H.S.):Kerala is expected to experience unusually hot weather on Monday and Tuesday, with temperatures likely to rise three to four degrees Celsius above normal, the India Meteorological Department has warned.

High atmospheric humidity is expected to intensify discomfort, making conditions feel hotter than the recorded temperature. The weakening of the southwest monsoon has contributed to the rise in heat. However, officials said the current conditions have not been classified as a heatwave.

Punalur recorded the state’s highest temperature on Sunday, registering 4.4 degrees Celsius above the seasonal average. Kottayam reported 35 degrees Celsius, while Thrissur and Palakkad each recorded 34.3 degrees.

Authorities have urged residents to take precautions against sunburn, heat exhaustion and dehydration. People should avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., drink water regularly even when they are not thirsty, and avoid alcohol, coffee, tea and carbonated beverages.

Residents have been advised to wear loose, light-coloured cotton clothing and use footwear, umbrellas or hats while outdoors. Fruits, vegetables, oral rehydration solution and buttermilk can help maintain hydration.

Special attention should be given to children, older people, pregnant women, bedridden patients, persons with disabilities and those suffering from illness. Schools and examination centres must ensure adequate drinking water and ventilation, while outdoor assemblies and activities should be rescheduled.

Employers should adjust working hours for construction workers, farm labourers, street vendors and delivery personnel and provide sufficient rest and water. Organisers of public events should arrange shade and drinking water and, where possible, avoid gatherings during peak afternoon heat.

The public has been warned of an increased risk of fires at markets, buildings, waste dumps and forest fringes. Livestock and pets should be kept out of direct sunlight and supplied with enough water. Children and animals must never be left inside parked vehicles.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman