THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, India — Two people died from suspected heatstroke in Kerala as temperatures in the southern Indian state soared to record highs, local media reported Monday.
A 90-year-old woman and a 53-year-old man succumbed to the heat on Sunday in Kerala, where temperatures reached 41.9 degrees Celsius (107 degrees Fahrenheit), nearly 5.5 degrees above average, according to The Hindu.
Scientists attribute the increasing frequency, severity, and duration of heatwaves to climate change.
Authorities in Kerala, located at India’s southern tip, issued warnings and urged precautions against the heat, including staying indoors.
Meanwhile, in neighboring Tamil Nadu, a politician in Chennai distributed fresh fruit, coconuts, and cold drinks to help residents cope with the heat.
India’s weather department forecasts an increase in heatwave days through June until the onset of the monsoon, which typically brings cooler temperatures.
