A man was found dead near the Bharathapuzha river at Yakkara on Wednesday, with a preliminary post-mortem report indicating dehydration as the likely cause of death. The incident comes amid intense summer conditions in Palakkad, where temperatures in some areas have soared past 40 degrees.

The deceased was identified as V. Pratheesh, 45, son of the late Vasu of Thambattiveedu. He had left home on Tuesday to bathe in the Bharathapuzha at Yakkara but did not return, prompting a search.

His body was found lying on the riverbank that night. The police said an investigation was under way.