Thiruvananthapuram | The KSDMA on Wednesday urged the public to take adequate safety precautions as the state recorded a high UV index in sunlight over the past 24 hours.

In a statement, Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) said that prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can lead to sunburn, skin diseases, eye problems and other health issues.

High UV index levels are generally recorded between 10 AM and 3 PM, and people have been advised to avoid direct exposure to sunlight for extended periods during these hours, it said.

“Those engaged in outdoor work, fishermen involved in marine and inland fishing, people engaged in water transport, bike riders, tourists, individuals with skin diseases, persons with albinism, those with eye ailments, cancer patients, and people with low immunity should exercise special caution,” the statement said.

People stepping out during daytime have been advised to use hats, umbrellas and sunglasses, and wear cotton clothing that covers the body, it said.

Similarly, during travel and other outdoor activities, people should take breaks and rest in shaded areas.

“High-altitude and tropical regions generally record higher UV index levels. Even under clear, cloudless skies, UV levels can remain high. In addition, surfaces such as water bodies and sand can reflect ultraviolet rays, increasing exposure in such areas,” KSDMA said.

KSDMA is publishing UV index data from 14 stations on its website.