Scorching Palakkad: Living Through Kerala’s Hottest District

Palakkad, is widely recognized as one of the hottest places in the state due to its unique geography and climate patterns. The district experiences high temperatures, especially during the summer months, making it stand out in a region otherwise known for its moderate tropical climate.

Reasons Behind the Heat

• Palakkad is situated near the Palakkad Gap, a natural mountain pass in the Western Ghats that allows hot dry winds from Tamil Nadu to flow into Kerala. This funneling effect significantly raises temperatures in the area compared to other parts of Kerala.

• The gap reduces the typical cooling effect of the Western Ghats, leading to warmer conditions.

• Climate patterns such as the decline of El Niño and absence of usual seasonal winds have contributed to the rising temperatures and lack of typical seasonal relief.

Temperature Patterns

• The hottest month in Palakkad is generally April, when average daytime temperatures hover around 36°C (97°F), with peaks often exceeding 40°C (104°F).

• In 2025, the temperature touched a mark of 44.8°C in Kanjirapuzha, Palakkad, and 44.3°C in Erimayoor, making it the highest temperature recorded in the district that year so far.

• Earlier in February 2025, Palakkad recorded the highest temperature in India at 38°C, highlighting the early onset of extreme heat in the region.

• Even outside the hottest months, Palakkad’s temperatures tend to be higher than many other parts of Kerala, with daytime temperatures often staying above 30°C.

Climate Characteristics

• Palakkad’s climate is marked by hot summers and relatively warm nights, with humidity levels that can make the heat feel more intense.

• The district experiences a tropical climate but with a distinct dry and hot season before the monsoon rains arrive.

• Rainfall during the monsoon somewhat cools the region, but the pre-monsoon months remain scorching.

Impact and Precautions

• The extreme heat has caused drying up of rivers and reservoirs, such as the Malambuzha dam, leading to water scarcity concerns in the district.

• The Health Department has issued warnings about dehydration and heat-related illnesses, urging people to stay hydrated and avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours

• The government has issued heatwave alerts and adjusted outdoor working hours to protect laborers and vulnerable populations

• During elections and public events, special arrangements like tents and water supply have been made to protect people from the scorching sun.

• Wearing SPF and UV protectant cloths are advised to reduce sun damage.

Palakkad’s record-breaking temperatures and early onset of intense heat underline the growing impact of climate changes in the region. With April being the hottest month, residents and visitors alike need to take precautions to cope with the scorching heat. The unique geography of Palakkad, combined with shifting climate patterns, makes it one of the hottest places in Kerala during the summer months.