Hot weather warning issued to 13 districts

Extreme and caution level heat weather advisory has been issued by the Department of Meteorology today for 13 districts including Mullaithivu, Vavuniya, Puttalam, Kurunegala, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Monaragala.

According to the heat index issued by the department, Jaffna, Kilinochchi, Trincomalee, Batticaloa, Matale, Ampara, Badulla, Gampaha, Colombo, Kalutara, Galle, Matara and Hambantota districts would be affected by severe heat.

Meanwhile, Mullaithivu, Mannar, Vavuniya, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Puttalam, Kurunegala and Monaragala districts have also been cautioned to be affected by the hot weather conditions.

In such areas, people may suffer due to heat cramps, exhaustion and continuing activity in the open sun could lead to heatstroke.

The Met Department said the Heat Index Forecast was calculated by using relative humidity and maximum temperature and the condition that is felt on the human body.

The department also advised the public to remain hydrated and take breaks in the shades as often as possible at exposed work sites. They also advised checking the conditions of the elderly and the sick who are indoors and not leave the children unattended.

Outdoor workers are advised to limit their strenuous activities, find shade and stay hydrated. (Chaturanga Samarawickrama)