• Fatigue is possible with prolonged exposure, continued activity could result in heat cramps

By Chaturanga Pradeep Samarawickrama  

The perceived temperature on the human body is anticipated to rise to ‘Caution’ levels in certain locations within the North-western, Western, and Southern Provinces, as well as in the Ratnapura District, the Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre of the Meterology Department said. According to the heat index advisory, Puttalam, Kurunegala, Gampaha, Colombo, Kalutara, Ratnapura, Galle Matara and Hambantota mentioned as caution level.   

“People may suffer heat cramps and exhaustion and continuing activity in the heat or sun could lead to heatstroke,” the advisory warns.  

The Met. Dept. also advised the public to remain hydrated and take breaks in the shade as often as possible.   They also advised checking on the elderly and the sick, who are indoors and not to leave children unattended. They also requested to wear lightweight, white or light-colored clothing.  

The heat index forecast is calculated by using relative humidity, maximum temperature and the condition that is felt on the human body.