Kerala Records Alarming Rise in Temperatures, Affects Agriculture and Daily Life
In 2024, Kerala witnessed a significant increase in its temperature levels, a shift that could have far-reaching consequences on the state’s climate, agriculture, and livelihood. According to the annual climate report from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), maximum temperatures in Kerala increased by nearly one degree Celsius compared to the previous year. Meanwhile, minimum temperatures also saw a noticeable rise, with many places recording up to three degrees higher than the usual levels in the months of January and February. This unexpected rise in temperature is just the tip of the iceberg, as the state faces more intense and frequent heatwaves.
The rise in temperatures occurred earlier than usual, starting from January and intensifying through the summer months of March and May. By the beginning of May, places like Kozhikode saw the mercury touch an alarming 39°C, while Alappuzha reached 38.3°C and Thiruvananthapuram recorded 37.8°C. Experts attribute this early spike to the rising sea surface temperatures, which have shifted from affecting the highland regions like Wayanad and Idukki to coastal and midland areas, exacerbating the local climate. Senior climatologist Gopakumar pointed out that areas like Palakkad, Punalur, and Kottayam, which were previously less susceptible, now routinely see temperatures soar to 39-40°C during peak summer months.
The Changing Climate Patterns and Their Impact on Agriculture
The impact of rising temperatures is not just being felt in the cities but is also taking a heavy toll on agriculture in Kerala, which has long been dependent on its favourable climate. The changing temperature patterns are directly affecting cropping seasons, particularly the flowering and fertilisation periods for crops. Ajit Kumar, an agri-meteorologist at Kerala Agriculture University, highlighted that the 120-day paddy crop is now being delayed to as long as 160 days, causing potential losses for farmers. The flowering season for crops like tomatoes, which needs a balance of temperature and humidity, is also disrupted, leading to lower yields.
These agricultural disruptions are part of a broader trend of shifting weather patterns that are making traditional farming practices less predictable. The state’s farmers are finding it harder to adapt to increasingly erratic weather conditions, as the duration of both heatwaves and rainy spells becomes harder to forecast. This unpredictable weather is compounding existing challenges faced by farmers, including fluctuating market prices and changing soil conditions, making it a difficult time for those dependent on the land for their livelihood.
Sustainability Concerns and the Urban Impact of Rising Temperatures
Rising temperatures are not just an agricultural concern but are also increasingly affecting urban areas in Kerala. With the mercury rising, the urban heat island effect—where cities experience higher temperatures than surrounding rural areas due to human activities and dense infrastructure—has worsened, making daily life more uncomfortable. Public health is also at risk, with more cases of heat-related illnesses, such as heatstroke and dehydration, being reported during heatwaves. In addition, poor air quality exacerbated by rising temperatures and increasing vehicular emissions has led to more respiratory problems.
The sustainability angle becomes critical here, as the rising temperatures and its impact on both agriculture and urban life demand a comprehensive approach. Kerala, with its unique geography and biodiversity, must urgently adapt to these changing climatic conditions to mitigate the adverse effects on both the environment and public health. Promoting urban green spaces, increasing awareness of climate change, and prioritising climate-resilient agricultural practices are necessary steps. The state can still harness its natural resources for sustainable development if it prioritises clean energy, afforestation, and improved waste management systems to curb rising temperatures and protect its citizens’ well-being.
The Way Forward: Immediate Action Needed to Mitigate Future Climatic Impact
The findings in Kerala’s 2024 climate report point to a growing crisis that is already unfolding across the state. With the mercury rising steadily each year, the consequences for agriculture, public health, and the environment will continue to intensify unless immediate action is taken. The rise in temperature is not merely a seasonal fluctuation but part of a larger global trend linked to climate change, which demands a united response at local, regional, and global levels.
For Kerala to ensure a sustainable future, the state must take proactive steps in reducing its carbon footprint and fostering green initiatives. Solutions such as promoting renewable energy sources, enhancing public transportation, and focusing on sustainable agriculture practices will not only help reduce the rise in temperatures but will also safeguard the livelihood of millions. Kerala’s resilience lies in its people, and through informed, collective action, it can mitigate the long-term impact of these changes, ensuring a balanced and thriving ecosystem for future generations.
