Munnar Records High UV Index Amid Cold Mornings and Rising Daytime Heat
February 17, 2026
Munnar continues to see high ultraviolet (UV) radiation levels, scoring 8 on the UV index scale on Monday and 7 on Tuesday, even as mornings remain cold. The UV index measures sun radiation from 1 to 11. The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) reported these elevated levels which have lasted several days.
Climatologist Gopakumar Cholayil advised, “Those working in open plantations must wear loose clothing that adequately covers the face and body.” He warned that prolonged heat and high UV could harm the forest ecosystem and may push wild animals closer to human areas looking for food and water.
Tourism, the main source of income in Munnar, might suffer as visitors could choose other spots if the high UV and heat continue. “If this climate pattern persists, tourists may opt for alternative destinations,” Cholayil said.
Despite chill mornings with temperatures as low as 3°C in Chundavurrai, daytime heat can reach up to 27°C, especially at Seven Malai. Other spots like Nallathanni and Devikulam saw lows around 4°C. The United Planters Association of South India (UPASI) Tea Research Foundation reported no tea crop losses despite these shifts.
Dileep Pottankulam, president of the Munnar Hotel and Resort Association, stated, “Night and early morning temperatures remain extremely cold, which is a major attraction for visitors. Tourist arrivals have not declined and are expected to remain steady through February.” He highlighted that Munnar’s cooler nights continue to draw crowds compared to other places.
To protect outdoor workers from the heat, the District Labour Officer has ordered a mandatory break from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. until May 20. Work shifts must change accordingly, and strict penalties will apply for violations.
Munnar’s mix of chilly mornings and hot days poses new challenges for locals and tourists alike.
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Munnar
Uv Index
High Uv Radiation
Temperature
Tourism
Safety measures
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