The heat index in Kerala has soared this year raising concern over the risk to health this poses if people do not take adequate precautions to stay hydrated.

According to a report prepared by the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) on Thursday, certain areas in the southern state have recorded a heat index of more than 54 degree Celsius, which poses a health risk as it could lead to a heat stroke.

Heat index is an indicator of the actual heat that a person experiences and includes the combined effect of atmospheric temperature and humidity. Advanced countries use the heat index to gauge what the temperature ‘feels like” based on which public health warnings are issued.

According to the KSDMA report, the southern part 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 a heat stroke.

Only some areas in the hill districts of Idukki and Wayanad have recorded a heat index of below 29 degree Celsius.

Palakkad is experiencing lesser heat so far this year, with a heat index of 30-40 degree Celsius. Most of the Idukki district is also in the same range.

KSDMA has prepared the heat index map using the automatic weather mapping facilities of India Meteorological Department.

The health authorities have advised people to take extra care while going out and hydrate themselves well to stay safe from the oppressive heat.