Amber heat advisory issued for several areas

The Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre has issued an amber warm weather advisory for several parts of the country, warning that the heat index could reach the ‘Caution’ level during the daytime tomorrow (24).

The advisory was issued at 4:00 p.m. today (23) and is valid until 4:00 p.m. tomorrow.

The warning is applicable for residents of the Eastern and North Central Provinces and in the Jaffna, Kilinochchi, Vavuniya, Mullaitivu and Monaragala districts.

Heat Index Expected to Rise

According to the advisory, the temperature felt by the human body is likely to increase to the ‘Caution’ level in some areas during the daytime.

Authorities noted that the heat index is calculated using relative humidity and maximum temperature and represents how hot conditions may feel to the human body. It is not a forecast of the actual maximum air temperature.

The Heat Index forecast is prepared by the Department of Meteorology using global numerical weather prediction model data for the following day.

Public Advised to Take Precautions

Authorities have advised the general public to take precautions against the effects of hot weather.

At workplaces: Stay well hydrated and take breaks in shaded areas as frequently as possible.

Indoors: Check on elderly and sick people, who may be more vulnerable to heat.

In vehicles: Never leave children unattended inside vehicles.

Outdoors: Limit strenuous physical activity, seek shade and drink plenty of fluids.

Clothing: Wear lightweight, white or light-coloured clothing.