The Meteorology Office has advised the public to be cautious when going outside during high-heat hours.
April is the hottest month in the Maldives.
The Met office tweeted details of the feel-like temperature or perceived humidity in five regions of the country as of 11:00 am today. The average temperature in different parts of the country is between 31.6 degrees Celsius and 32 degrees Celsius. However, according to the Met Office infographics, the feels-like temperature at 11:00 am today was 40.4 degrees Celsius in Hanimaadhoo, 39.3 degrees Celsius in Hulhule, 40.4 degrees Celsius in L. Kadhdhoo, 39.6 degrees Celsius in GDh. Kaadedhdhoo, and 39.8 degrees Celsius in S. Gan.
The Met Office said as this is the hottest period of the year, the office will share the temperature data from Hanimaadhoo, Hulhule, Kadhdhoo, Kaadedhdhoo, and Gan on its Viber group at 11:00 am, 2:00 pm, and 5:00 pm daily.
The Met Office said the heat peaks around 2:00 pm. The temperature rise is due to slow winds and high humidity, the office said.
The Met Office has advised the public to take measures to protect themselves from the heat. Infants, the elderly, people who work long hours in the sun, and athletes are at increased risk of health problems due to the heat. Possible health problems resulting from high heat include fatigue, cramps, headache, dizziness, dehydration, decreased urine output, and bright-colored urine. Health problems such as increased eye damage, skin irritation, frequent vomiting, and even falling unconscious can be caused by heat waves. If any such symptom is experienced, the MET office advises seeking medical attention immediately.
Some precautions that can be taken include using umbrellas when going out in the heat, wearing light-colored, body-covering clothing, using a wide cap that provides more protection against the sun, and using sunscreen lotion above SPF 15.
The Met Office also advised people to drink plenty of water, wear sunglasses that filter UV radiation, and avoid drinking sugary drinks to prevent dehydration and limit outdoor activities during hot weather.
