Mercury tops 35C in Colombo: Drink more water, avoid the sun
Avoid unnecessary exposureto the sun and drink plenty of water; this is the advice from a health official in view of the prevailing heat.
Family and Health Bureau's maternal and child health director Dr. Chithramalee de Silva stressed the importance of keeping oneself hydrated and seeking shade whenever possible when outdoors. Those who have no option but be outdoors should protect themselves from the sun as much as possible.
“As far as possible refrain from exerting in broad daylight and try to go out before 11 a.m. or 4 p.m. Those engaged in agriculture or construction related work should try to wear light-coloured clothes," she said, adding that excessive exposure to the sun could result in cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat strokes.
The highest temperature of 35.5 Celsius this week was reported from Colombo and Ratmalana areas on Friday.
Meteorology Department Acting Director Athula Karunanayake said the main reason for the prevailing warm weather was the absence of significant wind speed over the country and low rainfall during the present North East monsoon period which lasts from December to February.
“At the moment we are experiencing a rainfall of 26% which is low compared to previous years," he said. Another reason is the high humidity level in the country.
Meanwhile the Education Ministry has advised principals to take precautionary measures to keep students away from the sun, in view of the ongoing school sports meet season.