UVI levels remain high in parts of Kerala, alerts issued in districts

A high level of ultraviolet index (UVI), a measure of the sun-burn producing UV radiation level, in Kerala in the past few weeks has led the authorities to issue an alert against sun stroke and skin infections.

According to a bulletin issued by the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) on Wednesday (February 4, 2026) morning, the highest level of UVI (eight) in the past 24 hours was recorded at Munnar in Idukki. An orange alert has been issued here. The lowest level of three was at Vilappilsala in Thiruvananthapuram.

The UVI is measured on a scale of 0 to 11. A reading between three and five is considered “moderate”, six to seven “high”, eight to 10 “very high”, and 11 and above “extreme”. Precautions must be taken when the reading is “high”, and extra precautions are required when it is “very high”. At 11 and above, there is an increased risk of health issues such as skin damage and infections.

The KSDMA records UVI levels from its radiometers installed at 14 stations across the State. On Tuesday (February 3, 2026), Konni in Pathanamthitta, Chengannur in Alappuzha, Changanassery in Kottayam, Thrithala in Palakkad, and Ponnani in Malappuram recorded a reading of seven, prompting a yellow alert in these places. Kottarakkara in Kollam, Kalamassery in Ernakulam, Ollur in Thrissur, Beypore in Kozhikode, and Mananthavady in Wayanad reported a reading of six. The index was five in Dharmadam in Kannur and Uduma in Kasaragod.

The KSDMA has said that people may avoid exposure to direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., when radiation levels are considered high. Those who work outdoors, fishermen, tourists, and people with existing health conditions should take extra precautions by wearing hats, sunglasses, and full-sleeved clothing, the authority said.

Meanwhile, summer showers are expected in some parts of the State in the coming days. The authorities, however, have pointed out that rain may not bring down the UVI if it is brief. Once the sky clears after the rain, UV radiation levels could rise again.