The Kerala government has asked residents to swim outside in the rain, as the heat and the humidity are keeping many indoors in their homes.
The state government has issued a circular for people to stay indoors on Wednesday.
The circular was issued at the request of local government authorities, who want to ensure the safety of people in the heat, said Deputy Chief Minister Jyoti Basu.
“Residents of these towns and villages are required to maintain the temperature at around 23 degrees Celsius.
Even if you are not outside, keep your head dry and stay indoors.
People should also keep their heads away from open windows and doors,” he said.”
We want to assure the people that the heat will only last till 7 pm.
The people are also asked to stay inside and not take off their clothes or put on hats,” he added.
The circular also said people can’t wear masks, which would make the heat worse.
The district administration said the state government would be setting up a helpline number for people who have been left out.
“The helplines number will be used for any issues such as people missing their children and pregnant women.
It will also be used to get information about the weather conditions,” said Anupam Rangasamy, the district administration official in Kochi.