Kerala, a state in India not known for high heat, is currently dealing with a searing heatwave. The state administration has taken precautions to lessen the consequences, such as closing schools and universities until Monday and encouraging locals to restrict their sun exposure.
Heatwave Grips Kerala
This heatwave is a substantial change from Kerala’s regular climate. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the state saw only five hot days in April. However, May has brought about a significant change, with temperatures increasing throughout the region. The IMD predicts that India will see an unusually high number of heatwave days from April to June. This coincides with the country’s general election, which saw a lower voter turnout than expected. Experts feel that high temperatures may be a significant cause.
El Nino’s Influence
The IMD attributes the heatwave to the current El Nino weather pattern. El Nino years are typically characterized by increased heating, leading to hot and dry conditions in Asia and heavier rainfall in parts of the Americas. The weather department further explains that a combination of fewer thunderstorms and an anti-cyclonic circulation near India’s southeastern coast is fueling the heatwave.
Kerala Takes Action
In reaction to the heatwave, the Kerala government issued a number of instructions to protect its population. All educational institutions have been told to close on Monday, May 6th. Residents are advised to limit their time spent outside, especially during peak sun hours (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.). Authorities are actively watching the situation to prevent wildfires, which are more likely during dry spells. The sweltering temperatures in Kerala are not exceptional. Other countries of Asia and North Africa have also seen school closures due to heatwaves. Experts worry that extreme weather occurrences are growing the knowledge gap between industrialized and poor countries in tropical regions.
Unconfirmed Heat-Related Deaths
According to local media sources, at least two persons perished in Kerala earlier this week. However, investigators have yet to ascertain if these deaths were directly related to the excessive heat. On Thursday, the temperature in Thiruvananthapuram, the state capital, reached 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit). However, the IMD states that due to excessive humidity, it felt closer to 46 degrees Celsius (115 degrees Fahrenheit). High heat and dry conditions have caused frequent forest fires in different parts of India. The problem has gotten worse in Odisha state, where individuals are burning wood to obtain flowers used in alcohol production.
Kerala’s Fight Against the Heatwave
The Kerala government is taking proactive measures to protect its inhabitants from the record heatwave. They hope to reduce the effects of the excessive heat by closing schools, promoting sun safety, and implementing fire prevention techniques. While the long-term forecast is unknown, Kerala is working hard to keep its inhabitants safe during this difficult time.
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