Highest max temp touches 37 deg Celsius in Mysuru in April

Mysuru: Amid the challenges of threat to green cover, with proposed developmental projects, Mysuru which was known for its cool, moderate weather, round the year, is witnessing high temperature levels.

Mysuru witnessed the highest maximum temperature of 37.2 degree Celsius on April 24; and 36 degree Celsius on March 27, according to the officials of the Indian Meteorological Centre, Bengaluru. Currently Mysuru has a green cover of 14% while it should be 33%.

"During summer the northerly, north easterly and north westerly winds bring warm air advection causes heat wave condition over interior Karnataka," said head of the Meteorological Centre, Scientist-F, N Puviarasan.

Mysuru District Health officer Dr P C Kumarswamy said, "In order to handle the heat scenario, we have established an ORS corner at all health care facilities. We have also come up with heat stroke management rooms in the district with fan, ice cubes and other facilities, by reserving two beds in Community Health Centers, five in taluk Hospitals, and 10 beds in district hospital, from March 1 to July 31".

However, so far, there have not been any cases of heat stroke in Mysuru district, Dr Kumaraswamy said.

In order to manage the heat scenario, the officials of Karnataka State Disaster Management Centre and Health department have adivsed the people to stay hydrated, drink sufficient water frequently, even if one is not thirsty; use Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS), consume homemade drinks like lemon water, butter milk/lassi, fruit juices with some added salt which helps to re-hydrate the body. They have advised to avoid alcohol, tea, coffee and carbonated soft drinks, which dehydrates the body.

They have advised the people to wear thin, loose, cotton garments preferably light coloured; wear shoes or chappals, UV protected goggles, cover head by using umbrella, hat, cap, or towel while under direct sunlight. They have advised to use fan, damp cloth to cool down the body and take bath in cold water frequently.

They have advised travelers to carry water; athletes to avoid strenuous activities, workouts when the temperature is high. They have advised farmers to use a damp cloth on their head, neck, face and limbs apart from using hat and umbrella. They have asked the farmers to keep animals in shade and give them plenty of water to drink.