Heat wave conditions to continue in Kerala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state continued to reel under severe heat wave on Monday with the met department predicting similar weather conditions on Tuesday as well. The met department said heat wave conditions are likely to be severe at isolated places especially in Palakkad and Kozhikode districts.

People have been advised to be careful while venturing out between 11 am and 3 pm. Hot winds are likely to blow across some districts especially Palakkad and Kozhikode. People have been advised to be careful while venturing out. The highest temperature was recorded in Palakkad 40.7, Kozhikode 38.3, Kannur 38.2, Punalur  37. 5 and Thiruvananthapuram 35 degree Celsius.

Meanwhile, in the wake of prevailing heat wave conditions in the state, the rapid response team comprising senior officials of the health department and specialist doctors from various department of medical college held an emergency meeting here on Monday. The meeting presided over by director health services Dr R Ramesh, reviewed the current situation.

So far 286 persons have faced health related issues in different districts due to heat wave. The meeting decided to take the following steps in view of the heat wave; Education department will be asked not to open schools till May 15, employers to be given directions to avoid work  from 11 am to 3 pm, ensure gruel, water, resting place  at the site and labour departments should direct employers to take all necessary precautions.

The experts said those consuming liquor are more prone to various health problems due to heat wave hence alcohol consumption should be completely avoided during this period. People should have fruits and avoid heavy food, construction sites should have adequate clean drinking water, those above 60 years and people with diabetes and cardiac problems,  those below the age of 4 should avoid venturing out in the sun. Those on medication should ensure that medicines are taken without any break.