UV Index Rises Across Kerala; Orange Alert in Five Locations, Yellow Alert in Six

Thiruvananthapuram: The ultraviolet (UV) index has risen sharply across Kerala alongside intensifying summer heat, with the State Disaster Management Authority issuing orange and yellow alerts for multiple locations based on UV readings recorded over the past 24 hours.

Orange alerts — indicating the need for serious precautionary measures — have been declared at Konni (Pathanamthitta), Chengannur (Alappuzha), Changanassery (Kottayam), Munnar (Idukki), and Thrithala (Palakkad). The orange alert threshold corresponds to a UV index reading of between 8 and 10.

Yellow alerts have been issued for Kottarakkara (Kollam), Kalamassery (Ernakulam), Ollur (Thrissur), Ponnani (Malappuram), Beypore (Kozhikode), and Mananthavady (Wayanad). Prolonged exposure to solar radiation can cause sunstroke, skin disorders, and eye ailments, the authority warned.

Public Advisory

The UV index peaks between 10 AM and 3 PM, and the public is advised to minimise direct sun exposure during these hours. Persons working outdoors, fisherfolk engaged in sea and inland fishing, those involved in water transport, motorcyclists, tourists, and individuals with skin conditions, eye ailments, cancer, or compromised immunity are urged to exercise particular caution.

When venturing out during daytime, the public is advised to wear hats, carry umbrellas, and use sunglasses. Full-coverage cotton clothing is recommended. Those travelling outdoors should seek shade during rest breaks. Residents of highland and tropical regions are cautioned that UV levels tend to be persistently elevated in such areas and should take additional care.