The Indian state of Kerala, which recently suffered from extreme rainfall, is now facing severe heat conditions with temperatures reaching unprecedented levels. Despite the summer season just starting, the daily heat index is already showing alarming results. According to a report by the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA), some areas in the southern state have recorded a heat index of over 54 degrees Celsius, which can pose serious health risks and increase the likelihood of heat stroke.
The heat index is a measure of the heat one feels due to a combination of atmospheric temperature and humidity. Developed countries use the heat index to record the "feels like temperature" and issue public health warnings accordingly. In Kerala, the southern tip of Thiruvananthapuram district, as well as areas in Alappuzha, Kottayam, and Kannur districts, have a "feels like temperature" of over 54 degrees Celsius.
On Thursday, major areas of Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Kozhikode, and Kannur recorded a heat index of 45-54 degrees Celsius. Prolonged exposure to these areas could lead to heat stroke. Generally, Kasaragod, Kozhikode, Malappuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, and Ernakulam are experiencing a heat index of 40-45 degrees Celsius, which can lead to fatigue if one has prolonged exposure to the sun.