The Health Ministry warned that prolonged exposure to direct sunlight amid the prevailing high temperatures could result in a range of heat-related illnesses and, in severe cases, even death.

Speaking at a media briefing on the El Niño weather conditions held at the Health Promotion Bureau yesterday (19), Community Health Specialist Dr. Inoka Suraweera of the Ministry’s Environmental and Occupational Health Unit said the prevailing temperatures could cause skin rashes, muscle cramps and other heat-related conditions.

She identified young children, elderly people and those suffering from non-communicable or chronic diseases as particularly vulnerable to extreme heat. People working outdoors, including those engaged in agriculture, are also at increased risk, she said.

Dr. Suraweera advised the public to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, particularly between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., when temperatures and solar radiation could be particularly intense.

She urged the public to drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration and said standardised skincare products could be used to minimise skin-related problems caused by the heat.

Dr. Suraweera also recommended drinking boiled and cooled water, clarifying that “cool” water does not necessarily mean ice-cold or refrigerated water.

Other precautions include wearing light-coloured clothing, covering the head when outdoors and maintaining adequate hydration. People with chronic illnesses should also ensure that they take their prescribed medication at the correct dosage, she said.

Meanwhile, measures have already been taken in coordination with the Education Ministry to protect schoolchildren from the effects of the prevailing conditions.

Dr. Suraweera advised students to use hats or umbrellas when leaving school, limit unnecessary outdoor activities and remain in shaded areas as much as possible.

She added that the Health Ministry was working with relevant institutions to manage the situation and minimise the health risks associated with the current extreme heat.

Meanwhile, the Meteorology Department has issued a warm weather advisory for residents of the Eastern and North Central Provinces, as well as the Jaffna, Kilinochchi, Vavuniya, Mullaitivu and Monaragala Districts.

According to the advisory, the heat index, which indicates the temperature felt by the human body, is likely to reach the ‘Caution Level’ in some areas of the Eastern and North Central Provinces and the specified Districts during the daytime today (20).

The Department said the Heat Index Forecast is calculated using relative humidity and maximum temperature to indicate the conditions felt by the human body.

It warned that prolonged exposure to sunlight and outdoor activity could result in fatigue, while continued activity could lead to heat cramps.

Residents in the affected areas have therefore been urged to stay hydrated and limit strenuous outdoor activities.