El-Niño's intense heat to the island

In view of the prevailing hot weather conditions in many parts of the island, the Department of Meteorology has issued an Amber colored hot weather advisory for the districts of Jaffna, Kilinochchi, Mullaitivu, Vavuniya, Kurunegala, Monaragala, and Hambantota, including the North Central and Eastern Provinces. According to the heat index calculated by the National Early Warning Centre for Disaster Management, the 'felt' temperature in the daytime in the relevant areas may be at a 'caution' level.

Based on global mathematical model data and atmospheric humidity, this heat index, prepared under the guidance of health authorities, represents the actual 'felt' heat condition of the body.

It is emphasized that this extreme hot weather condition, which has arisen due to the El Niño climatic phenomenon, can have its adverse effects controlled and minimized through prior awareness and proper intervention.

Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to complications such as skin rashes, fainting, heat cramps, and heat exhaustion. Health authorities warn that in the most severe condition, heat stroke, a patient can even die within a short period, such as an hour. During heat stroke, the body's temperature regulation process is impaired, causing severe damage to vital organs such as the brain, heart, lungs, and kidneys, and symptoms such as unconsciousness and cessation of urination may also appear.

To protect oneself from these risky conditions, preparedness and adherence to health precautions are essential. Especially, exposure to direct sunlight should be limited between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM, and it is advisable to constantly drink sufficient water and wear light-colored, loose clothing. Limiting strenuous outdoor activities, resting in shaded areas, taking care of the elderly and sick at home, and ensuring that small children are not left alone in parked vehicles are also important. Further information on this can be obtained by calling the Disaster Preparedness and Response Unit of the Ministry of Health at 011-7446491.