Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru/Udupi: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heatwave/yellow alert for the coastal regions of Karnataka, warning of a significant rise in temperatures. The alert predicts hot and humid conditions in Udupi, Dakshina Kannada, and Uttara Kannada districts on February 26 and 27, with maximum temperatures expected to rise further.
Over the past few days, coastal Karnataka has experienced a sharp increase in temperatures. Despite being February, a month typically associated with cooler weather, the region has been experiencing intense heat. Mornings are foggy, followed by cloudy skies, but afternoons are scorching with intense sunlight. The IMD’s heatwave warning indicates that the heat intensity is likely to increase further.
What is heatwave?
A heatwave is characterized by a significant rise in temperature, typically 4 to 5°C above normal. Currently, the region has already recorded a 3°C rise in average temperatures. On February 25, the highest temperature of 37.6°C was recorded in Karwar, followed by 37.2°C in Panambur, Mangaluru, which is 3.8°C above normal. Temperatures are expected to rise further in the next two days, with Panambur’s record for February standing at 38.7°C.
Yellow alert:
The IMD has issued an yellow alert for Udupi, Dakshina Kannada, and Uttara Kannada districts, warning of hot and humid conditions today and tomorrow. Authorities have urged people to take necessary precautions.
Precautions to follow during heatwave:
- Stay in cool places as much as possible.
- Use umbrellas when stepping out in the sun.
- Wear lightweight cotton clothing.
- Use cotton hats or caps.
- Rest during peak sunlight hours.
- Drink plenty of water and buttermilk.
- Keep living spaces cool.
- Immediately move heat-affected individuals to a cooler place.
- Provide immediate medical attention to those affected by heatwaves.
- Ensure heat-affected individuals drink sufficient water, buttermilk, and oral rehydration solutions.
Actions to avoid during heatwave:
- Avoid direct exposure to sunlight or heatwaves.
- Do not go outside without an umbrella during peak heat hours.
- Avoid wearing dark-colored, tight, or synthetic clothing.
- Do not expose your head directly to the sun.
- Avoid strenuous physical activities during peak heat hours.
- Refrain from consuming hot tea or alcohol.
- Prevent direct sunlight from entering living spaces.
- Do not delay moving heat-affected individuals to a cooler place.
- Do not delay providing first aid to heat-affected individuals.
- Avoid consuming tea, coffee, or honey during heatwave conditions.