The Department of Meteorology has warned residents of seven districts to prepare for elevated heat conditions on August 13, with the heat index expected to reach 'Caution level' during daytime hours.
The Department of Meteorology has issued a warm weather advisory affecting the districts of Vavuniya, Mullaitivu, Trincomalee, Polonnaruwa, Batticaloa, Ampara, and Monaragala. The alert, valid for August 13, warns that the heat index—a measure of how hot the air feels to the human body when factoring in humidity—is expected to reach 'Caution level' at certain locations during daytime hours.
According to the Met Department, the heat index is calculated using relative humidity and maximum temperature readings to provide residents with a realistic sense of thermal stress they may experience. Officials cautioned that prolonged sun exposure and outdoor activity during peak heat hours could result in fatigue, with continued exertion potentially leading to heat cramps.
Residents in the affected districts have been advised to take preventive measures to reduce heat-related health risks. Recommendations include maintaining adequate hydration throughout the day, minimizing time spent in direct sunlight when possible, and postponing strenuous outdoor activities to cooler parts of the day, particularly during the hottest afternoon hours.
