BANGKOK, THAILAND – Thailand’s meteorological authorities confirmed that the heat index in early April 2026 could climb to alarming levels between 52 and 60 degrees Celsius, posing a serious health risk for vulnerable groups.
What is the heat index?
The heat index described the temperature that the human body actually felt, rather than the measured air temperature. It was calculated by taking humidity into account, providing a more accurate assessment of heat danger.
High heat index values could lead to serious health problems, especially for people with pre-existing conditions or living in special circumstances. Health officials stressed that prolonged exposure to such conditions could quickly overwhelm the body’s ability to cool itself.
Who was most at risk?
Particularly at risk were older people, children, pregnant women and those with chronic illnesses. People working outdoors, as well as individuals with overweight and mental health conditions, were also considered vulnerable and were urged to take special precautions.
Health authorities recommended checking weather forecasts and the reported heat index regularly. This was intended to help people protect themselves in time from the dangers posed by extreme heat.
Tips to avoid heat damage
To reduce health risks, people were advised to avoid outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day, especially between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Staying in shaded or air-conditioned environments during this period was recommended whenever possible.
Authorities emphasized the importance of drinking enough water. The recommendation was to consume at least 6–8 glasses of water per day and to reduce the intake of alcohol and sugary drinks, which could worsen dehydration.
Recommended clothing and behaviour
Wearing breathable clothing and using hats and umbrellas could help regulate body temperature. People taking certain medications were urged to watch for possible symptoms that might indicate heat-related side effects.
For those working or exercising outdoors, it was advised to operate in groups. This made it easier to detect potential health problems early and respond quickly if someone showed warning signs of heat stress.
Special guidance for older people
Older adults were urged to pay particular attention to drinking water regularly and staying in well-ventilated rooms. They were advised to avoid direct sunlight during the hottest hours of the day.
Regular breaks and sufficient rest were described as crucial to minimise health risks. Authorities underlined that careful self-observation and support from relatives or carers could be decisive during periods of extreme heat.
Public reaction and discussion
Residents were encouraged to reflect on the situation in light of rising temperatures and the increasing heat index. The report invited people to share which measures they considered necessary to protect themselves and others from heat-related dangers.
“How do you assess the situation regarding rising temperatures and the heat index, and what steps do you think are needed to protect yourselves and others?”
said Chiang Mai News, inviting readers to discuss their experiences and prevention tips.
Readers were called on to exchange practical advice on heat prevention and to use community discussion to raise awareness. The aim was to strengthen individual and collective preparedness ahead of the hot period in April 2026.