The public has been adviced to practice caution, with the air temperature across Maldives recently surging above 40 degrees Celsius.

The Maldives Meteorological Service (MMS) urged caution from the public to take the necessary precautionary measures against the heat, as the warmest month of the year nears ending.

April is the transition period between the two monsoons: south-west monsoon and north-east monsoon.

The department noted that the concluding month has been the warmest month of the entire year with which the winds are idle, thereby increasing humidity stagnates and worsening the warm air temperature, making it feel hotter than the actual air temperature.

On April 22, the department publicized the air temperature and feels-like temperature in some atolls. As such, in Hanimaadhoo air temperature was at 32°C, however, it felt like 40.4°C. The same was recorded in Kadhdhoo island.

Meanwhile, in Hulhulé the air temperature was recorded at 31.6°C with a feels-like temperature of 39.3°C.

The air temperature in Kaadedhdhoo was 39.6°C with a feels-like temperature of 31.6°C and Gan island of Laamu atoll experienced an air temperature of 31.8°C, with a feels-like temperature of 39.8°C.

Some of the possible health issues due to rising temperatures include heat exhaustion, weakness, muscle cramps, headaches, dizziness, dehydration which can lead to issues in urination, damage to the eyes and vision, flushed and burned skin, rashes, vomiting, palpitations as well as a weak pulse.

Those who experience fatigue, weakness, headaches or more symptoms have been urged to seek medical assistance without delay.

Further, as the elderly and children are at a higher risk of heat exhaustion due to the rising temperatures, it is important to refrain from taking children outside during daytime. Close breastfeeding and keeping children above six years of age well hydrated are also adviced. Further, parents and guardians have been urged to pay close attention to precautionary measures adviced to be taken if they are taking their children outdoors during daytime.

Some other preventive measures against heat exhaustion include using umbrellas, shades, sunscreens that have SPF15 or above, wearing light-colored and modest clothing, drinking plenty of water to avoid dehydration and avoiding drinks with high sugar.

Heat waves can cause numerous health issues which is why it is important to take precautionary steps to prevent heat exhaustion and keep the preventive measures in mind when going outdoors.

The meteorological department publicizes temperature across five stations every day at 11am, 2pm, and 5pm on their Viber group. The department revealed that generally, the maximum temperature of the day is observed at around 2pm.