Bangkok Post: Thailand heat index reaches danger levels

People advised to stay out of direct sunlight, drink a lot of water

Temperatures are increasing as the hot season is established and health authorities warn people who stay out of the sun if possible with the Heat index since he has hit the orange “Dangerous for health” level.

The heat index from March 5 to 14 showed temperatures of 42-51.9ºC in some areas, which was considered dangerous for health. People in the southern, center, east and northeastern regions were at risk, said a senior health official

People should verify the weather forecast and avoid outdoor activities if possible, and drink water frequently, during the warm climate, said Thiti Sawangtham, deputy general director of the Department of Health.

Heat eruption, heat exhaustion and heat stroke could lead to death, said Dr. Thiti.

The most sensitive groups were the elderly, obese workers, outdoors and alcohol absbibers, and people with underlying health conditions, including mental problems, he said.

On Tuesday, the Department of Meteorological reported 10 provinces in which temperatures reached its maximum point at 38-39ºC on Monday, all in the north.

The upper part of Thailand would see colder temperatures until Saturday, since the cold air now covered parts of the northeast. The forecast was for strong winds, but less rain, according to the report.

The climate from March 23 to 28 would be very hot again. There would be scattered summer storms, especially from March 29 to next month. However, it was not expected that this summer was as hot as last year, he said.