Bangkok’s heat index climbs to dangerous 51.9°C, govt opens cooling shelters

BANGKOK, June 25 — Bangkok residents have been warned to stay out of the midday sun after the city’s heat index — the temperature the human body actually feels — climbed to a dangerous 51.9°C, just shy of the highest warning category.

According to The Nation, Thailand’s Environment Department and Meteorological Department placed the capital in the “Danger” zone today, urging people to avoid unnecessary outdoor activities between 11am and 3pm because of the heightened risk of heatstroke.

Unlike the recorded air temperature, the heat index combines heat and humidity to measure how hot conditions feel to the human body. High humidity limits the body’s ability to cool itself through perspiration, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses.

Authorities classify heat index readings of 42°C to 51.9°C as “Danger”, while anything at or above 52°C falls into the highest “Very Dangerous” category, when people are advised to avoid all outdoor activity.

As temperatures continue to soar, the government has also opened “Bangkok heat escape rooms” across the city, offering residents places to cool down during the hottest parts of the day.

Officials said eight groups require special attention during the heatwave. They include young children, senior citizens, pregnant women, people with underlying medical conditions, obese individuals, those who consume alcohol, outdoor workers such as construction workers and delivery riders, as well as people exercising or sightseeing outdoors.

Residents were reminded to watch for warning signs including fatigue, dizziness, skin rashes, cramps and unusually red or swollen skin, which can quickly progress to life-threatening heatstroke if left untreated.

According to The Nation, people can monitor real-time heat conditions through the AIR BKK mobile application or its LINE account, while anyone suffering from heat-related illness should call Thailand’s 1669 emergency hotline immediately.