KATHMANDU: The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) has issued a heatwave alert, warning of extreme heat and hot wind conditions in parts of western Nepal from today until Monday.
According to the notice, temperatures in some areas of the Tarai region in Lumbini and Sudurpashchim provinces are expected to reach 40 degrees Celsius or above, leading to a high risk of extreme heat conditions. Moderate heatwave conditions are also likely across several Tarai districts in the two provinces.
The authority has urged residents of districts including Dang, Banke, Bardiya, Doti, Kailali and Kanchanpur to remain on high alert. Likewise, districts such as Kapilvastu, Rupandehi, Arghakhanchi, Palpa, Pyuthan, Rolpa, Salyan, Surkhet, Achham, Dadeldhura and Baitadi have been placed under “updated alert” status.
Officials warned that prolonged exposure to extreme heat and hot winds could cause health complications ranging from mild illness to severe conditions, and have urged all concerned agencies to remain prepared for response.
The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology had earlier issued a special bulletin stating that temperatures in parts of the Tarai have been rising sharply since May 20.
Health experts caution that heat-related illnesses may include fatigue, weakness, excessive thirst, headache, muscle cramps, dizziness, fainting, and vomiting.
Authorities have advised the public to avoid direct sunlight during peak hours, stay indoors as much as possible, wear light-coloured and loose clothing, drink plenty of water, and consume oral rehydration solution if necessary.
People are also encouraged to eat fresh home-cooked food, avoid junk food, schedule outdoor work in the early morning or late afternoon, and prevent children from playing outdoors during extreme heat conditions.
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