A purported advisory, claiming that temperatures in Kerala will rise to 45°C-55°C between April 29 and May 12, along with instructions to avoid going out from 10am to 3pm, is being widely circulated on social media.We have received a fact-check request via our WhatsApp tipline (+91 9999499044) regarding this claim.

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Evidence

1. No such forecast in official weather warnings

A detailed check of the Indian Meteorological Department's official website and its social mediapages found no warning indicating temperatures rising to 45°C-55°C in Kerala between April 29 and May 12, 2026.

2. Disaster Management Authority confirms the claim is false

On April 13, 2026, theKerala State Disaster Management Authority issued an official statement clarifying that:

• The "Civil Defence" message is fake.
• There is no such department in Kerala issuing such alerts.
• No forecast predicts temperatures reaching 45-55°C.

The authority also warned that spreading such false information is punishable under the Disaster Management Act, 2005.

3. District administration's warning

The Palakkad District Collector also issued a statement on April 13, 2026, confirming that the message is fake.

At the same time, it is important to note that temperatures are indeed rising across the state, and caution is necessary. The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority has issued the following official guidelines:

Official Instructions (issued on April 13, 2026):

• Avoid direct sunlight between 11am and 3pm.
• Drink water regularly, even if you are not thirsty.
• Avoid alcohol, coffee, tea, and soft drinks.
• Wear light-coloured cotton clothing.
• Use an umbrella or hat when outdoors.
• Include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet.
• Use ORS and other rehydration drinks.
• Exercise caution in fire-prone areas.
• Be aware of the risk of forest fires.
• Ensure adequate drinking water and ventilation in schools.
• Avoid exposing children to direct heat.
• Elderly individuals, pregnant women, and those with illnesses should take extra care.
• Workers should adjust their working hours to avoid peak heat.
• Ensure animals have access to water.
• Do not leave children or animals inside parked vehicles.
• Carry water while travelling.
• Seek medical attention if you feel unwell.
• Follow only official warnings and updates.

Verdict

The 45°C-55°C heat warning circulating in the name of "civil defence department" is fake. No such official warning has been issued in Kerala. However, as temperatures are rising, it is important to follow government-issued guidelines and remain cautious.