Ultra Violet radiation cross danger zone in drought hit Kerala

The summer has barely begun, but in Kerala, ultraviolet (UV) radiation index stands at an alarmingly high level. A steady rise in temperature was recorded over past few days, and the UV radiation level has touched 10 UV index in most districts in the state.
 

Meanwhile, UV index in Thiruvananthapuram and Wayanad districts reached as high as 12, weather experts said. 
 

Also read: Kerala imposes mandatory curbs on water use as drought intensifies
 

The UV index had touched 12 points in 2014, but only in Palakkad district where maximum temperature was recorded that year. The year also saw several deaths owing to sun stroke. 
 

An UV index above 10 points indicates high risk and people exposed to sunlight are likely to be in danger of sunstroke. Heat waves are another issue that is likely to occur due to the high level of UV radiation. The high degree of UV radiation is the result of a dip in atmosphere moisture and presence of less cloud, Department of Atomic and Molecular Physics head of department M K Satheesh Kumar said. 
 

Weather experts advise people to stay indoors between 10 am and 4 pm and avoid exposure to direct sunlight. When out in sun people are advised to use sun protection cream, umbrella and sunglass.

• UV index
• drought
• Kerala drought
• sunstroke
• heat wave