Kerala is reeling under intense heat with the mercury rising at most places across the state, testing the resilience of residents and travelers alike.
As the temperature soars high, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a critical three-day warning of hot and humid conditions for Kerala as temperatures across the state are well above seasonal norms.
Speaking to the Press Trust of India, Neetha K. Gopal, Director, IMD, Kerala, said mercury has already reached alarming levels in the southern state.
“Most districts in Kerala will experience higher than normal temperatures on Monday, Tuesday and the day after,” she said.
On Sunday, Punalur reported a maximum of 38.4 degrees Celsius, while Kottayam reached 37.8 degrees Celsius — a staggering 3 degrees above the normal for this time of the year, she said.
The heat is especially exhausting for those who depend on nature for their livelihoods.
Workers like Sundaran, Selvaraj and Sivakumar, who work here daily in the open air, described the struggle against physical exhaustion.
“This tough summer is testing our stamina,” they shared as they took a short break.
“We are obliged to endure the heat, so we drink more and more water to fight fatigue. Even if we forget to eat, the thirst is constant,” the workers said.
The tropical intensity also caught visitors in the state by surprise.
Travelers coming from Uttar Pradesh to visit Kerala’s famous temples have expressed shock at the conditions.
“We can’t stand the heat. The temperature in UP is not that harsh, this is testing us,” remarked the visitor.
Even the state’s traditional means of cooling are at risk.
In Thiruvananthapuram, gentle coconut vendor Omana faces an obstacle of her own.
Despite high demand between 11am and 3pm, he struggles to keep his stall stocked.
“I can’t meet the demands because the distribution has been hit by an unexpected shortage,” Ms. Omana explained.
“We are collecting from hometowns, local markets and even vendors in Kanyakumari, but it is still not enough,” she said.
Looking ahead, the IMD predicts a short window of relief with light to moderate rainfall expected on March 27 and 28.
However, Mrs. Gopal warned that this respite would be short-lived.
“After these two days, rains will reduce and temperatures will rise again. We are not expecting much rainfall this week and north Kerala in particular will continue to see warmer temperatures,” she explained.
As for the long-term outlook, the public will have to wait, the expert added.
Published – 23 March 2026 21:21 IST
