Kerala Battles Intense Heat and Humidity, IMD Issues Thunderstorm Alert
On Tuesday, Kerala was gripped by a significant heatwave, with maximum temperatures soaring to between 35 and 37 degrees Celsius across the state. Palakkad recorded the highest mercury level at 36.9°C, while other locations including Punalur, Cial Kochi, Kannur airport, and Kottayam all saw daytime temperatures exceed the 35°C mark. This surge in heat has raised concerns among residents and authorities alike.
Humidity Levels Spike Across the Region
Accompanying the high temperatures was a notable increase in relative humidity (RH) levels throughout Kerala. Punalur reported the highest RH at 85%, with Palakkad and Kottayam following closely at 89% and 86%, respectively. These elevated humidity readings have contributed to a muggy and uncomfortable atmosphere, exacerbating the effects of the heat.
Minimum Temperatures Show Varied Patterns
Minimum temperatures displayed appreciable rises in several districts. Kozhikode district experienced a significant increase, while Kannur, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Thiruvananthapuram, and Thrissur districts all recorded above-normal minimum temperatures. In contrast, Punalur registered the lowest minimum temperature at 21.5°C, highlighting the diverse thermal conditions across the state.
IMD Forecasts Thunderstorms and Lightning
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning, indicating that thunderstorms accompanied by lightning are very likely to occur at a few places on Wednesday. This forecast is linked to persistent weather systems affecting the region.
A low-pressure area over the southwest and adjoining areas of the south Bay of Bengal continues to persist in the same region. The associated cyclonic circulation extends up to 3.1 kilometers above mean sea level and is expected to move eastwards, gradually weakening by Wednesday. Additionally, an upper-air cyclonic circulation over the southeast Arabian Sea off the south Kerala coast remains active, along with a trough extending from south interior Karnataka to Marathwada.
Recent Rainfall Data Highlights Localized Showers
According to 24-hour rainfall recorded on Tuesday morning, Neryamangalam received 5 cm of precipitation, while Venkurinji saw 4 cm of rain. These localized showers provide some relief but are not sufficient to mitigate the overall heat and humidity conditions prevailing in Kerala.
Residents are advised to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, and remain alert for weather updates as the IMD monitors these developing systems closely.
