Met. Dept. issues ‘Extreme Caution’ heat advisory
26 February 2020 03:19 pm
The Meteorology Department today issued heat weather advisory in ' Extreme Caution' level to be expected in most part of North-Western & Western Provinces and Mannar, Galle and Matara Districts.
The Department said the Heat Index Forecast is calculated by using relative humidity and maximum temperature and this is the condition that is felt on your body.
“This is not the forecast of maximum temperature. It is generated by the Department of Meteorology for the next day period and prepared by using global numerical weather prediction model data,” it added.
The Disaster Preparedness & Response Division of the department together with the Ministry Health have requested people to adhere to the following instructions,
- Stay hydrated and takes breaks in the shade as often as possible.
- Check up on the elderly and the sick.
- Never leave children unattended.
- Limit strenuous outdoor activities, find shade and stay hydrated.
- Wear lightweight and white or light colored clothing.
Although there has been a slight increase in temperature for the last two months, this is the first time that the Meteorology Department has issued a heat advisory considering the prevailing heat weather.
Meanwhile, National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) Senior Scientist H.D Sarath Premasiri told Daily Mirror that it was precautionary for people to avoid unnecessary exposure to the sunlight and to drink plenty of fluids on frequent basis.
Overexposure to the sun might lead to complexities on certain people and thus it is good for everyone to stay away from the sun,” he said.
“The reason for this phenomenon is the prevailing climate changes that have affected the entire world,” he added. (Sheain Fernandopulle)