The scorching sun has begun creating a fear among the residents of Tiruchy, as the temperature level was going up since the last week of March. The dry spell of monsoon coupled with scanty rainfall reported across the delta region has made the summer more harsher than the previous years.
According to the Meteorological department officials in Chennai, the city is expected to witness high mercury levels till mid-May. The monsoon deficit in the region has been all time high resulting in gradual rise in temperature from the beginning of March. The temperature for the month of April has already touched 42 degree celsius. If the weather pattern is set to continue, May will turn unbearable for the people of Tiruchy. However, there are chances for summer rains which might bring down the temperature by a degree or two. The highest temperature recorded for April was 42.8 degree on April 19, 1896 followed by 42.3 degrees in 2004 when the monsoon failed miserably in the region. The city is infamously known for its harsh summers. The minimum temperature level has set to rise in the recent decades owing to improper monsoon and high daytime temperature levels. The minimum temperature on April 7 was recorded as 27 degree which is nearly three degree higher than the lowest minimum temperature recorded last year.
In 2010, the lowest minimum temperature for the month of April was recorded as 25.8 degree.
Speaking to Express, Dr Alim, Head of Neuro Department, Annal Gandhi Government Hospital said, sunstroke, dehydration and skin burns are very prominent during summer season. Tiruchy witnessing higher daytime temperature, he advised people to consume more water and other fluid substance including juices. Also, fruits like watermelons, muskmelon and Palm fruit will bring down the core temperature of the human body. Newborns should be fed in timely intervals in order to avoid dehydration.
Further, extra care must be given for elders who often suffer from sunstroke. People with renal and cardiac complications will likely be more vulnerable to the summer temperature. Spending their time in more spacious area will be a relief.
Advising on the dress code Alim said, cotton dresses are ideal for summer, one should avoid nylon and glossy dresses. Also usage of diapers for newborn and toddlers during the summer might cause skin rashes due to lack of airflow, cotton knitwear will be better alternative.