Kerala which experienced extreme rain a few months ago is now battling severe heat conditions with the temperatures shooting up to unprecedented levels.
The summer clock in the coastal state has just started ticking and already the daily heat index is showing an alarming trend.
According to a report prepared by the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority on Thursday, certain areas in the southern state have recorded a heat index of more than 54 degree Celsius, which can cause serious health risks and imminent heat stroke chances.
Heat index is a pointer towards the heat one experiences with the combined effect of atmospheric temperature and humidity.
Many developed countries use the heat index to record the 'feels like temperature' in order to issue public health warnings.
According to it, the southern tip of Thiruvananthapuram district and certain areas in Alappuzha, Kottayam, and Kannur districts have a 'feel like temperature' of more than 54 degree Celsius.
Major areas of Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Kozhikode, and Kannur also recorded a heat index of 45-54 degree Celsius on Thursday.
Prolonged exposure and activity in these places could lead to heat stroke. -- PTI