Tamil Nadu Braces for Scorching Heat as Kathiri Veyil Begins May 4
Posted on: 01/May/2025 5:37:43 PM
Residents of Tamil Nadu, especially in the coastal districts, are advised to prepare for an intense summer as the peak heatwave season - Kathiri Veyil or Agni Natchathiram - is set to begin on May 4 and continue for 25 days.Temperatures are expected to soar up to 5°C above normal, leading to extremely hot and dry weather conditions across the state. The heat intensity will be more severe in coastal regions including Chennai, Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, and Ramanathapuram.In response to the forecast, the Directorate of Public Health and Preventive Medicine (DPH) has issued a set of precautionary guidelines to help the public stay safe and avoid heat-related illnesses.
Do’s to Stay Safe During Kathiri Veyil:
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Use umbrellas or hats when stepping out in the sun.
- Avoid going out between 12:00 pm and 3:00 pm, when the sun’s rays are strongest.
- Wear lightweight and breathable clothing.
Don’ts to Avoid Heat Risks:
- Avoid strenuous outdoor activities during peak heat hours.
- Never leave children or pets inside parked vehicles.
- Avoid coffee, tea, soft drinks, and alcohol, which can dehydrate the body.
- Do not cook during the hottest part of the day, as it can raise indoor heat levels.
- Avoid walking barefoot on hot surfaces.
- Refrain from eating high-protein or expired foods during this period.
