Sri Lanka is experiencing a severe heatwave, as much of South and Southeast Asia grapples with scorching temperatures in recent weeks.
The Meteorological Department of Sri Lanka predicts maximum temperatures ranging from 36 to 37 degrees Celsius in the North, North Central, and Eastern Provinces, as well as the Monaragala District, until the second week of May.
Warnings have been issued by the Department of Meteorology, cautioning that the Heat Index, or the temperature felt on the human body, is expected to rise to ‘Extreme Caution level’ in some areas of Northern, North-central, North-western, and Eastern provinces, as well as in the Monaragala district. Additionally, ‘Caution level’ Heat Index is anticipated in certain places in Western, Sabaragamuwa, and Southern provinces.
Professor Charitha Pattiaratchi from The University of Western Australia has warned of very hot conditions in Sri Lanka in the upcoming days, emphasizing the combination of high temperature, humidity, and low winds leading to a Heat Index of 40+ degrees.
The heatwave isn’t confined to Sri Lanka alone; across South and Southeast Asia, millions have faced scorching temperatures, setting records and even resulting in fatalities. India, for instance, witnessed maximum temperatures exceeding 110 degrees Fahrenheit in various regions last month, with the eastern city of Bhagdora touching a staggering 114.8 degrees on April 21.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a “red alert” warning for several eastern and southern states, including Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, and Odisha, where temperatures have soared since mid-April.
In Southeast Asia, the heatwave has brought about brutal conditions. The Philippines saw thousands of school closures due to drought and temperatures reaching up to 111 degrees in early April. Similarly, Thailand and Vietnam have faced heat-related challenges, with authorities warning of heatstroke and forest fire risks.
