Mandalay temperatures soar, leading to increased heat stroke incidents

Mandalay temperatures soar, leading to increased heat stroke incidents
 Manisal Social Assistance Association caring for an elderly person suffering from heat stroke (Manisal Social Assistance Association).
Manisal Social Assistance Association caring for an elderly person suffering from heat stroke (Manisal Social Assistance Association).
Published 19 May 2024

Rising temperatures in Mandalay have led to a surge in heat stroke cases, with three people fainting from heat stroke on the morning of May 18, according to social organizations.

"Since this morning, we have treated three heat stroke patients, and it’s still early in the morning but the heat is intense. The number of heat stroke cases is increasing," said the chairman of the Manisala Social Assistance Association. The affected individuals are all over 50 years old, but fortunately, no fatalities have been reported.

On May 16, three more individuals, including middle-aged people, suffered from heat stroke, particularly those carrying heavy loads in the sun. "Yesterday, we treated three more cases, some of whom were middle-aged," the chairman added.

Since early April, Mandalay has experienced rising temperatures leading to numerous heat stroke cases and even some deaths. Although temperatures briefly decreased in early May due to rain, they began rising again after May 10, causing a resurgence in heat stroke incidents.

The Department of Meteorology and Hydrology (DMH) reported that central regions of Myanmar, including Sagaing, Shwebo, Aunglan, Taungtwingyi, and Kyaukse, recorded the highest temperatures on May 16. According to Eldorado Weather, Magway and Chauk in central Myanmar are among the 15 hottest cities globally, with temperatures continually rising.