Kannur (Kerala) | A 37-year-old man has died of suspected heatstroke in what is believed to be the state's first such case this year, police said on Thursday.

The deceased has been identified as Sanal Kumar M V, a native of Mowanchery in Pallipoyil, police said.

According to the police, the incident occurred at around 1.20 pm on Wednesday, when Kumar collapsed while engaged in the construction of a well.

He was initially taken to a clinic and later shifted to a private hospital for further treatment.

"He died at around 2.55 am on Thursday, and doctors have cited heatstroke as the cause of death. There is nothing suspicious," the FIR stated.

A case of unnatural death has been registered at Chakkarakkallu police station, officials said.

The body was handed over to his relatives after the post-mortem, police added.

Kerala is experiencing a severe heatwave, with authorities advising the public to avoid working outdoors between 11 am and 3 pm and to take adequate precautions.