Chennai: The dog days of May has begun. Dry weather is likely to intensify and heatwave-like conditions may prevail in several districts of Tamil Nadu as Kathiri Veyil begins today.
The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) here has issued temperature warnings for many districts, where temperatures are likely to be in the 40-41 degree Celsius range.
General public are advised not to expose themselves to direct sunlight from 11 am to 3.30 pm, Met officials said.
Already with summer setting in, juice shops and tender coconut vendors are making brisk business as weary motorists stopped by to have a respite from the scorching sun in several stretches in the city.
Residents in suburbs too felt the heat till evening as the temperature peaked beyond 40 degree Celsius.
Speaking to News Today, Dr Sharadha Sainath, ‘Heatwaves are periods of extremely high temperatures in certain areas for extended lengths of time. Surprisingly, there is no universally accepted definition of how high. Common symptoms of heat exhaustion are high body temperature, nausea, rapid breathing, and severe headaches.
Perspiration is your body’s way of keeping cool, but it must be supplied on a regular basis. If you must be outside during a heatwave, drink plenty of water, even if you aren’t thirsty. Avoid sugary or alcoholic beverages, as they will cause you to lose more fluids. You should also avoid liquids that are really cold. However, ice-cold water might cause stomach pains. Before drinking more than the quantity suggested by your doctor if you’re on a fluid restrictive diet or have a problem with fluid retention, she added.
Ideally, you should stay indoors where there is air conditioning during a heatwave. You can also utilise fans, but bear in mind that fans will not prevent heat-related sickness when temperatures are high. A chilly shower or bath is a far better alternative. Eat only light, refreshing items like fruit and salads. They’re easier to digest than heavy, hot dinners, and they don’t heat up your house when you make them, she added.