High UV Radiation Levels In Kerala

Kerala recorded ultraviolet (UV) radiation levels above 8 in April 2026, with orange alerts issued in several districts under the UV Index scale used for public health warnings. The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) monitored UV Index values of 8 to 9 in districts including Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Kollam, Palakkad, Ernakulam, Thrissur, and Malappuram.

Ultraviolet Radiation And UV Index

Ultraviolet radiation is a part of the electromagnetic spectrum with wavelengths shorter than visible light and longer than X-rays. The UV Index is an international scale that measures the strength of ultraviolet radiation at the Earth’s surface, and values of 8 to 10 are classified as very high.

Alert Levels Used In Kerala

• An orange alert was issued for UV Index 8 in districts such as Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki, Kollam, and Palakkad on 19 April 2026.
• A yellow alert was issued for Ernakulam, Thrissur, and Malappuram on 19 April 2026 when UV levels were recorded at 7.
• Konni in Pathanamthitta and Munnar in Idukki recorded the highest UV Index of 8 on 20 April 2026.

Health Risks Linked To High UV Exposure

Prolonged exposure to high UV radiation can cause sunburn, skin damage, eye problems, and skin diseases. Outdoor workers, fishermen, and persons with pre-existing conditions are among the groups exposed to higher risk during peak UV hours.

Preventive Measures

• KSDMA advises avoiding direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., when UV radiation is usually highest.
• Protective clothing, hats, umbrellas, sunglasses, and shade are standard measures used against UV exposure.
• Drinking water and reducing outdoor activity during peak hours are common heat and UV safety practices in tropical regions.

Related Static Facts

Kerala is a coastal state on the south-western coast of India, and tropical regions often record higher UV exposure during clear-sky conditions. On 26 March 2026, Kerala’s electricity demand reached 5,802 MW, a state-level peak linked to higher cooling needs during warm weather.