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In an unprecedented weather event, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heatwave alert for Kerala in February for the first time. The warning is specifically for Kannur and Kasaragod districts, where temperatures are expected to rise above 39°C.
The IMD has also forecasted that the state will experience temperatures 2-4°C above normal on Wednesday. This unusual surge in heat has raised concerns among meteorologists and state agencies, as Kerala typically does not experience heatwaves this early in the year.
Record-Breaking Temperatures
On Monday, Kerala recorded its highest-ever February temperature, with Kannur Airport registering 40.4°C. The Kannur observatory recorded 39°C, which is 4.4°C above normal. Before this, Kerala had breached the 40°C mark in February only twice—in Punalur on February 8, 1975 (40.1°C) and in Palakkad on February 28, 1981 (40°C).
The IMD’s heatwave alert has taken many by surprise, as February is typically not associated with such extreme heat in the state. Experts attribute this sudden rise in temperatures to multiple factors, including a lack of rainfall this month, leading to prolonged dry weather conditions.
M.G. Manoj, a scientist at the Cusat Radar Research Centre, called the heatwave alert in February “unusual.” He explained that the absence of rain this month has resulted in dry weather, which has contributed to the rising temperatures.
“Temperatures rising like this in February is unseasonal. We didn’t receive any rainfall this month, which has resulted in dry conditions and, in turn, led to an increase in temperatures. The seasonal forecast from the IMD is expected by the end of this week, which will provide more clarity on how the summer will unfold for the state,” Manoj said.
He also pointed out that local factors play a crucial role in recorded temperatures. “Many of our observatories are located in city centers and airports where there are no shaded areas. Emissions from vehicles, concrete structures, and urban heat island effects contribute to the rising temperatures,” he added.
Government’s Response to the Heatwave
With the IMD’s warning in place, the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has issued a set of guidelines for local bodies to prepare for extreme heat events. These guidelines include both short- and long-term mitigation strategies to combat rising temperatures and ensure public safety.
Among the key recommendations are:
- Establishing cooling centers and shelters for people vulnerable to heat
- Creating resting areas for outdoor workers
- Identifying and providing special care for vulnerable populations, including the elderly and children
- Setting up a monitoring committee and appointing a nodal officer at the local level
- Deploying response teams to check on people at risk
- Issuing early warnings at the grassroots level
- Establishing emergency response teams to handle heat-related health issues
Authorities have urged the public to take necessary precautions, including staying hydrated, avoiding direct sunlight during peak hours, and wearing light, breathable clothing.
What Lies Ahead for Kerala?
As Kerala experiences this rare February heatwave, concerns about the upcoming summer season are mounting. The IMD’s seasonal forecast, expected later this week, will provide a clearer picture of what the state can expect in the coming months.
In the meantime, experts and government agencies are advising people to follow safety measures and stay informed about any further heat advisories issued by the IMD and KSDMA.
With temperatures continuing to rise and historical records being broken, Kerala may be witnessing the beginning of a hotter-than-usual summer. The state’s ability to adapt and implement effective heat mitigation strategies will be crucial in protecting its population from extreme heat conditions in the months ahead.
References:
https://internal.imd.gov.in/pages/press_release_mausam.php
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