Telangana Government warns citizens about rising temperatures, issues heatwave guidelines
Hyderabad: The Telangana government, through the Office of the Director of Public Health and Family Welfare, has issued an advisory to protect citizens from the rising temperatures expected over the next three days. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) in Hyderabad, the maximum temperatures across the state are forecast to increase by 2-3°C.
In response, the government has outlined important measures for citizens to follow to protect themselves from the heat.
Do’s for Protection Against Heatwave
The government advises citizens to stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day, even if they are not feeling thirsty. Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS) and homemade drinks, such as lemon water, buttermilk, and fruit juices, are also recommended. People are encouraged to carry water while traveling to ensure they stay hydrated.
Eating seasonal fruits and vegetables with high water content is another important recommendation. Fruits like watermelon, musk melon, oranges, grapes, cucumbers, and lettuce are ideal for keeping the body hydrated.
When venturing outdoors, it is important to wear loose, light-colored cotton clothing. Covering the head with an umbrella, hat, or towel can help shield from direct sunlight, while wearing shoes or chappals is advised to avoid contact with hot surfaces. The government also urges citizens to limit outdoor activities to the cooler parts of the day, specifically the early morning and evening.
Citizens are encouraged to stay indoors in well-ventilated, cool spaces. It is also advised to keep windows and curtains closed during the day, particularly on the sunny side of the house, and open them at night to let cooler air in.
For timely weather updates, people are advised to listen to local radio stations, watch TV, or check the IMD website at https://mausam.imd.gov.in.
Don’ts During the Heatwave
The government has also highlighted several precautions to minimize exposure to the intense heat. Citizens should avoid going out in the sun between 12:00 noon and 3:00 p.m., as this is when the sun’s rays are the strongest. Strenuous physical activities, especially in the afternoon, should be avoided.
Walking barefoot in the sun should also be avoided, and citizens are advised not to cook during peak heat hours. If cooking is necessary, it is important to ensure proper ventilation in the kitchen to prevent the buildup of heat.
The consumption of alcohol, tea, coffee, carbonated soft drinks, and sugary beverages should be avoided, as these can lead to dehydration. Additionally, high-protein, salty, spicy, and oily foods should not be consumed, and stale food should be avoided.
Signs of Heat-Related Illness
The advisory also warns of the symptoms of heat-related illnesses, including nausea, vomiting, hot and dry skin, body temperature exceeding 40°C (104°F), a throbbing headache, dizziness, fainting, muscle cramps, rapid heartbeat, shallow breathing, and confusion. If any of these symptoms occur, immediate medical attention is recommended.
The Telangana government has made provisions for special beds, intravenous fluids, essential medicines, and ORS sachets to manage emergencies. These are available at public health facilities and through community health workers like ANMs, ASHAs, and Anganwadi workers.
This advisory was issued by Dr. B. Ravinder Nayak, Director of Public Health and Family Welfare, Telangana, as part of the state’s ongoing efforts to safeguard its citizens during the heatwave.
