COLOMBO (NewsRadio); Warnings have been issued over extreme heat in several parts of the island for the second consecutive day.
The Department of Meteorology accordingly has issued what is being termed as a “heat index advisory: for several parts of the country including the Colombo and Gampaha districts.
The Met Department said the heat index, the temperature felt on human body is expected to increase up to ‘Caution’ level at some places in the Eastern and North-Central provinces and in the Colombo, Gampaha, Kurunegala, Kilinochchi, Vavuniya, Mullaitivu and Hambantota districts.
The heat index forecast is calculated by using relative humidity and maximum temperature and is the condition that is felt on an individual’s body.
According to the index prepared on the advice of the Ministry of Health and Indigenous Medical Services, the ‘Caution’ level means fatigue is possible with prolonged exposure and activities and could also result in heat cramps.
The Met Department accordingly has advised the public to stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade as often as possible if working at job sites, limit strenuous outdoor activities, observe the elderly and sick, to refrain from leaving children unattended in vehicles, and also wear lightweight and white or light-coloured clothing.
