Published Feb 09, 2026 | 1:51 PM ⚊ Updated Feb 09, 2026 | 1:51 PM
Hot weather. (iStock)
Synopsis: The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority issued a set of precautionary guidelines warning the public about the dangers of extreme heat, including sunstroke, heatstroke, and dehydration. People have been advised to avoid direct exposure to sunlight between 11 am and 3 pm.
As temperatures soar across Kerala, the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) on Monday, 9 February, issued a set of precautionary guidelines warning the public about the dangers of extreme heat, including sunstroke, heatstroke and dehydration.
People have been advised to avoid direct exposure to sunlight between 11 am and 3 pm.
The authority has urged everyone to drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if they do not feel thirsty, and to avoid dehydrating drinks such as alcohol, coffee, tea and carbonated beverages.
Wearing loose, light-coloured cotton clothes, using footwear, umbrellas or hats while stepping out has also been recommended.
The SDMA asked the public to consume more fruits and vegetables and to make use of ORS solutions and traditional drinks like ‘sambaram‘ (buttermilk).
Special caution has been sounded over the increased risk of fires in markets, buildings and waste dumping yards, with instructions to conduct fire audits and ensure safety measures. People living near such areas have been urged to remain vigilant.
With the possibility of forest fires rising during the heatwave, those residing near forest areas and tourists have been warned to strictly follow the Forest Department instructions and avoid any activity that could trigger fires.
Educational institutions have been directed to ensure clean drinking water and proper ventilation in classrooms and examination halls.
Schools have been advised to avoid assemblies and outdoor programmes during peak heat hours and to ensure children are not exposed to the sun between 11 am and 3 pm during excursions.
Panchayats and Anganwadi workers have been asked to take special care to protect Anganwadi children from heat exposure.
Elderly people, bedridden patients, pregnant women, children, differently abled persons and those with existing illnesses have been identified as high-risk groups and advised to take extra precautions.
Institutions have also been directed to ensure the safety of online food delivery workers using two-wheelers by allowing rest breaks and appropriate clothing during peak heat hours.
Journalists and police personnel working outdoors have been advised to use umbrellas, avoid direct sunlight and ensure access to drinking water.
Organisers of public events have been asked to provide sufficient drinking water and shade, and to avoid gatherings during peak afternoon hours wherever possible.
Construction workers, agricultural labourers, street vendors, and others involved in physically demanding work have been advised to adjust work timings and take adequate rest.
The SDMA has also called for special care for livestock, pets, birds and animals, urging people not to leave them in the sun or inside parked vehicles and to ensure the availability of water.
The authority has stressed the need to use water judiciously, store rainwater and carry drinking water while travelling.
Anyone feeling unwell has been advised to rest immediately and seek medical attention. The public has been urged to closely follow official warnings issued by the Meteorological Department and the Disaster Management Authority.
(Edited by Muhammed Fazil with inputs from Dileep V Kumar.)
