Rising temperatures compel West Bengal and Tripura governments to shut down schools

Digital Desk: The governments of West Bengal and Tripura announced the closure of schools this week following heatwaves in both states in recent days, based on PTI reports.

A heatwave is declared in the plains when the maximum temperature exceeds 40 degrees Celsius and is at least 4.5 degrees above normal.

Mamata Banerjee, West Bengal CM, stated that students have been complaining of headaches and other health issues after returning from school. "I will also ask people to avoid going out in the sun between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m.," she added. The India Meteorological Department said rain is highly likely in several regions of Gangetic West Bengal and Bihar over the next two days.

On the other hand, Manik Saha, her Tripura peer, stated that the blazing heat might have a negative influence on the student's health. He declared that schools would be closed from April 18 to April 23.

The government of Delhi has issued rules for schools under the Directorate of Education not to have afternoon assemblies. "Daytime temperatures of more than 40 degrees Celsius [Celsius] are detrimental to the health of children and adolescents studying," according to a circular. "Rising temperatures in the NCR [National Capital Region] have increased heat-related illnesses, exhaustion, dehydration, diarrhoea, and vomiting among citizens."

On Tuesday, the India Meteorological Department stated that heatwave conditions will likely continue in parts of east India for the next four days.

A severe heatwave, which is signalled when the maximum temperature exceeds 47 degrees Celsius, is extremely possible in several areas of Gangetic West Bengal and Bihar over the next two days, according to the weather service.

According to the India Meteorological Department, heatwave conditions have prevailed in isolated regions of Gangetic West Bengal for the past seven days, coastal Andhra Pradesh for five days, and Bihar for four days.

The weather department forecasts hotter-than-usual weather in several parts of India through June.

1| Avoid intense activity and going out in the sun, especially between noon and 3 p.m.

2| Wear lightweight, light-coloured cotton clothing that is loose and permeable. When going out in the sun, use protective goggles, an umbrella or hat, and shoes or chappals.

3| If you work outside, use a hat or an umbrella and wipe your head, neck, face, and limbs with a moist cloth.

4| Even if you're not thirsty, drink as much water as you can. Carry water with you when travelling.

5| Avoid dehydrating beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, and carbonated soft drinks.

6| Avoid high-protein foods along with eating stale meals.

7| To rehydrate the body, use oral rehydration salts and homemade drinks like Torani (rice water), lemon water, buttermilk, and so on.

8| Do not leave children or pets in parked vehicles.

9| If you feel faint or ill, see a doctor right away.

10| Keep your home cool by using curtains, shutters, or sunshades and leaving windows open at night.