Thiruvananthapuram, 14 March (H.S.):The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heat warning for nine districts in Kerala on Saturday as temperatures across the State continue to rise, prompting authorities to urge the public to take precautionary measures against heat-related illnesses.

According to the IMD, maximum temperatures are likely to reach 37°C in Alappuzha and Kottayam districts, while Kollam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Kozhikode, Palakkad, Kannur and Kasaragod are expected to experience temperatures of up to 36°C. A Yellow Alert has been issued for these districts in view of the rising heat levels and the possibility of uncomfortable weather conditions.

Officials said the combination of high temperatures and humid air could lead to hot and oppressive weather, particularly in the plains, while hill regions may experience relatively milder conditions.

As temperatures rise across the State, the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has issued a series of advisories urging residents to remain vigilant and adopt preventive measures to avoid health complications such as sunstroke, heat exhaustion, and dehydration.

Authorities have advised people to avoid direct exposure to sunlight between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., when the intensity of heat is at its peak. Residents are encouraged to drink plenty of clean water even if they do not feel thirsty in order to prevent dehydration.

The advisory also recommends avoiding beverages that may worsen dehydration, including alcohol, coffee, tea and carbonated soft drinks, especially during the daytime. People are urged to wear loose, light-coloured cotton clothing and use umbrellas, hats and footwear when stepping outdoors.

Health officials have also suggested including more fruits and vegetables in daily diets, while drinks such as oral rehydration solutions (ORS) and traditional beverages like sambaram (spiced buttermilk) are recommended to maintain hydration.

Authorities have warned that the hot weather could increase the risk of fires in markets, buildings and waste dumping yards, urging institutions to conduct fire safety audits and implement preventive measures.

With the possibility of forest fires rising during extreme heat, residents living near forest areas and tourists have been advised to remain cautious and strictly follow forest department guidelines.

Special care has also been advised for children, the elderly, pregnant women, bedridden patients and persons with disabilities, who are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. Schools and childcare centres have been asked to ensure adequate drinking water and proper ventilation, while avoiding outdoor assemblies or activities during peak heat hours.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman