Published Feb 15, 2026 | 1:06 PM ⚊ Updated Feb 15, 2026 | 1:06 PM
Representational image. (iStock)
Synopsis: The India Meteorological Department indicated that ultraviolet radiation levels are rising sharply in many parts of Kerala. Officials have warned people to be careful, as too much sunlight can lead to health problems.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Sunday, 15 February, indicated that ultraviolet (UV) radiation levels are rising sharply in many parts of Kerala. Officials have warned people to be careful, as too much sunlight can lead to health problems.
An orange alert has been issued after the UV index touched eight at Munnar in Idukki district, Konni in Pathanamthitta district and Chengannur in Alappuzha district.
A yellow alert was issued as the UV index touched seven in Changanassery in Kottayam, Kottarakkara in Kollam and Mananthavady in Wayanad, and six in Ollur in Thrissur and Thrithala in Palakkad.
Meanwhile, Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur and Kasaragode districts showed safer levels of UV radiation.
To prevent heat-related illness among outdoor workers, the Kerala Labour Commissioner changed work timings. Anyone working under the sun must take a compulsory break from 12 noon to 3 pm.
Total work time is limited to eight hours between 7 am and 7 pm. The morning shift must finish by noon, and the afternoon shift can begin only after 3 pm.
The health department has advised people to drink plenty of water and stay away from direct sunlight during very hot weather.
The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) said continuous exposure to high levels of ultraviolet radiation for a long time can cause sunburn and skin diseases.
It added that tropical regions and high mountain areas typically experience high UV indices.
A yellow alert is issued when the UV index is from six to seven, and people need to take precautions. An orange alert is issued when the UV index is from eight to 10, and people should take extreme caution and serious precautions.
If the UV index is above 11, a red alert is issued since it is the most serious situation; people should avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
(With inputs from Sreelakshmi Soman.)
