Kerala is normally a beautiful place, but this summer, it's become a more deadly one. Six people have died from snakebites in just one week, and experts are warning that the heat is to blame. They say the extreme summer temperatures are forcing snakes out of their natural habitats and into homes, where they're more likely to bite.

One of the victims was a 75-year-old woman named Vishalakshi, who died after being bitten by a snake while collecting mangoes near her house. But she's not the only one. The past week has seen six snakebite deaths in the state, with six more people injured.

Experts say that the summer heat, which is usually around 35 degrees Celsius, is causing the snakes to become more active. 'Climate is the main factor driving these interactions,' says herpetologist Sandeep. 'When it's hot outside, snakes tend to move into cooler spaces like homes.'

But it's not just the heat that's the problem – it's also the breeding season of the Big Four venomous snakes. These snakes, including the common krait, Russell's viper, spectacled cobra, and saw-scaled viper, are more likely to bite when they're looking for a place to nest. 'A single common krait can produce around 15 snakelets,' says licensed snake catcher Kannan. 'That's a lot of snakes looking for a place to call home.'

The good news is that hospitals are doing their best to treat snakebite victims. But doctors are flagging gaps in hospital infrastructure, including a lack of ventilators and intensive monitoring facilities. 'Administering anti-snake venom carries the risk of severe allergic reactions,' says the Kerala Government Medical Officers' Association. 'We need to make sure we have the right equipment and staff to deal with these cases.'

So what can you do to stay safe? The Kerala Government has advised residents to call the 108-ambulance service if they suspect someone has been bitten by a snake. They also recommend being more careful in areas where snakes are common, and making sure your homes are snake-proof. It's a tricky situation, but with some precautions, you can stay safe this summer.