IMD issues orange alert as heatwave intensifies across Kerala
Thiruvananthapuram (PTI): The IMD has issued an orange alert warning of heatwave conditions in parts of Kerala, prompting authorities to urge extreme caution amid soaring temperatures and high humidity.
According to a press release, heatwave conditions are likely at isolated places in the districts of Kollam, Thrissur, and Palakkad on Thursday and Friday.
Maximum temperatures are expected to reach around 41 degrees Celsius in Palakkad, 40 degrees Celsius in Kollam and Thrissur, and about 38 degrees Celsius in Kottayam, Pathanamthitta, Ernakulam, and Kozhikode during April 23–24, around 4 to 5 degrees Celsius above normal.
Other districts, including Alappuzha, Malappuram, Kannur, and Kasaragod, may see temperatures of around 37 degrees Celsius, while Thiruvananthapuram is likely to record about 36 degrees Celsius.
For April 25 and 26, temperatures are expected to remain above normal, with Palakkad around 40 degrees Celsius, Kollam 39 degrees Celsius, Thrissur and Kottayam 38 degrees Celsius, and most other districts ranging between 36 and 37 degrees Celsius.
The India Meteorological Department has also warned of hot and humid conditions across the state, except in hilly areas, from April 23 to 26.
In view of the situation, the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority has issued strict guidelines, particularly for the Education Department.
All vacation classes, camps, and similar student activities have been suspended during the warning period, including those in private schools, the statement said.
Exam-related activities such as valuation may continue only if adequate safeguards are ensured, including proper ventilation, access to drinking water, and sanitation facilities.
Authorities have also directed that precautionary measures against heat-related illnesses be communicated to students and parents through channels such as WhatsApp groups and the KITE Victers platform. Officials have been instructed to coordinate with district disaster management authorities.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan urged people to exercise extreme caution as temperatures continue to rise across the state.
In a Facebook post, he said temperatures have crossed 40 degrees Celsius in some regions, while high humidity is intensifying discomfort elsewhere.
Warning that extreme heat can lead to serious health complications and even death, Vijayan advised people to avoid direct sunlight between 11 am and 3 pm, describing it as a “self-lockdown” period similar to precautions during the Covid-19 pandemic.
He urged people to stay hydrated, avoid unnecessary travel and outdoor work, and ensure proper ventilation in homes and workplaces.
Wearing light, loose cotton clothing and using protective gear such as umbrellas and sunglasses were also recommended, he added.
Highlighting preparedness, the CM said working hours have been rescheduled to minimise daytime exposure, and employment guarantee works have been halted during peak heat hours.
He also called for ensuring drinking water and shade for animals and encouraged local bodies, Kudumbashree units, and voluntary organisations to set up public drinking water facilities.
People experiencing symptoms of heatstroke have been advised to seek immediate medical attention, while bystanders have been urged to assist affected individuals by moving them to shaded areas and helping cool their bodies.
“Together, with cooperation, we can overcome this severe summer as well,” he said.
In view of the heatwave warning issued by the IMD, the Kollam District Administration has announced that all educational institutions in the district will remain closed on Friday.
In a statement, the District Collector said that all institutions, including professional colleges, will remain closed considering the rising temperatures. However, examinations and interviews scheduled earlier will be held as per the existing timetable.
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‘No one bigger than party; if I indulge in anti-party work, action must against me’: Zameer Ahmed
Bengaluru: Housing Minister B.Z. Zameer Ahmed Khan on Thursday said no individual is bigger than the party and asserted that disciplinary action should be taken even against him if he is found indulging in anti-party activities.
Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, Zameer said, “No one is bigger than the party. Zameer Ahmed Khan is not bigger than the party. If I carry out anti-party activities, action must be taken against me as well.”
He also said that no one in the Congress had targeted him and dismissed suggestions that he was being singled out.
“I am not a leader. I am a public servant and an ordinary worker,” he said.
Referring to the controversy surrounding the ticket issue in Davanagere South constituency, Zameer said no one in the party had made allegations against him and no one had taken his name.
He said if religious leaders had made any statements, they should be asked directly about it.
Zameer further said some religious leaders had expressed disappointment over the denial of the ticket and added that discussions would be held with them.
