Forests in Kerala, dominated by deciduous and semi-deciduous trees, are experiencing unusually early drying this summer, mainly due to climate change and lack of rainfall in February.
According to forest officials, February was the driest month in more than a decade and saw the highest number of forest fires. The change is evident. So are measures taken by forest personnel to prevent fires.
“There is a huge threat as the outer forest rings have dried up like never before. Temperatures have soared and humidity levels remain unusually high,” said G. Dhanik Lal, Nilambur South Division Forest Officer and Karimpuzha Wildlife Warden.
Karulai Range Forest Officer Mujeeb Rahman PK said most of the plantation trees, especially teak trees, shed their leaves unusually early this year, raising fears of potential fires. “Karulai is experiencing an early heat wave and many other forest areas in the state are witnessing the same phenomenon,” he said.
As dried biomass from leaf fall accumulates on the forest floor, employees remain on high alert for potential fire outbreaks. “Fortunately, we have not faced any major fires so far, but our vigilance remains extremely high,” said Mr. Dhanik Lal.
The situation in Wayanad and Palakkad forests is similarly uncertain. “For several years, February has consistently recorded the highest number of forest fires. The temperatures are still rising and we are cautious. There has been no major fire problem so far,” said Palakkad divisional forest officer Ravi Kumar Meena.
The Walayar range remains one of the most vulnerable areas in the state. As in other forest areas, clearing of vistas is underway to reduce human-wildlife conflicts. This includes clearing bushes and undergrowth along roads and paths used by people, improving both visibility and safety. Vista clearance also plays an important role in forest fire prevention and control.
Feel like March
In Walayar, the temperature moved from 25°C in the morning to 35°C on Monday afternoon. “The first weeks of February already feel like late March to me. The forest seems much drier than usual. There could be several reasons, but the main factor is the spread of invasive plant species like Senna spectabilis (Manjakkonna),” said Rahul Raveendran, wildlife assistant at Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.
Water demanding species
He pointed out that invasive plants like Senna and Lantana camara use a lot of water and outnumber native species. “It becomes a water fight between invasive and native plants and the invasive species often wins, causing the forests to dry out. This also leads to changes in the behavior of wildlife, including predators,” Mr Raveendran said.
Published – 16 Feb 2026 20:41 IST