Public urged not to panic over fake heat alert

Colombo, April 29 (Daily Mirror) - The Meteorological Department denied the high alert warning currently circulating on social media about temperatures rising to 45 degrees Celsius and urged the public not to panic.

A duty Meteorologist told the Daily Mirror that no such warning had been issued to the public advising them to be cautious.

They explained that only a warm weather advisory had been issued for today, stating that the temperature felt by the human body is likely to reach the ‘Caution level’ in some areas of the Northern, Eastern and North-Central Provinces, as well as in the Moneragala and Hambantota districts.

The fake message circulating reads as follows:

Fake Message:

High alert has been issued...

From April 29 to May 12, between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., no one should go outdoors (under the open sky) because the Meteorological Department has reportedly stated that temperatures will rise between 45°C and 55°C. If anyone feels suffocated or suddenly falls ill, they should immediately consult a doctor. Keep room doors open for ventilation, reduce mobile phone usage as there is a risk of phones overheating and bursting. Be careful and inform others. Consume plenty of cold drinks such as curd, buttermilk, wood apple juice, etc.

Extremely important information:

The Directorate General of Civil Defense warns citizens and residents about the following:

Due to a suffocating atmosphere expected in most areas, with rising temperatures between 47°C and 55°C and the presence of cumulus clouds in the coming days, here are some precautions to follow:

Remove the following from cars:

• Gas materials
• Lighters
• Carbonated beverages
• Perfumes and appliance batteries
• Keep car windows slightly open for ventilation.
• Do not fill the fuel tank completely.
• Refuel your car in the evening.
• Avoid traveling by car in the morning.
• Do not over-inflate car tires, especially when traveling.
• Beware of scorpions and snakes as they may leave their burrows and enter parks and houses in search of cooler places.

Drink plenty of water and fluids. Do not leave gas cylinders in direct sunlight. Avoid overloading electrical meters and use air conditioners only in occupied rooms, especially during peak heat. Rest for 30 minutes every two to three hours. When outside temperatures reach 45°C–47°C, set your home air conditioner to 24°C–25°C for your safety and well-being. Avoid direct exposure to sunlight, particularly between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Regards,

Directorate General of Civil Defense.