As the September heat persisted across Keralam, the state power grid faced rising strain, prompting partial power restrictions on Tuesday evening between 6.30 pm and 12.30 am. Grid frequency fell as supply from the power exchange proved insufficient to meet the surge in demand, and officials moved to reduce load during the peak period. The prolonged dry spell and warmer-than-usual conditions increased reliance on fans, air conditioners and other cooling appliances in homes and commercial premises, driving consumption higher through the day and into the evening. Officials said the shortage of available power through the exchange coincided with an unexpected reduction in output from central generating stations, constraining supplies to the state. The Grid Controller of India notified that the country faced a power availability shortfall of around 12,000 MW. The Kerala State Electricity Board had warned that the combination of rising demand and limited exchange availability could make restrictions necessary, prompting operational planning for scheduled curbs to stabilise frequency. There was also an unexpected shortfall in output from central stations, which added to pressure on the state system and informed the timing of the evening measures. Peak-time demand in Keralam had in recent days risen by around 800 to 900 MW compared with typical September levels, increasing operational strain on distribution and transmission networks. If the rains stayed away the demand was expected to rise further by a similar margin, officials cautioned while noting that immediate pressure eased once restrictions were lifted. Temperature readings from the India Meteorological Department showed several stations recording above-normal maxima, with Punalur at 35.2 degrees Celsius and Kottayam at 34.6 degrees Celsius, the departures among the highest recorded in the state. The convergence of above-normal temperatures, weak rainfall and tight power availability left authorities preparing for continued high demand and careful management of supplies in the near term.