Sri Lanka, Aug. 20 -- The Ministry of Health has warned the public that prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during the prevailing hot weather could cause serious heat-related illnesses and, in severe cases, lead to death.

According to Community Health Specialist Dr. Inoka Suraweera of the Environmental and Occupational Health Unit, people should take extra precautions as temperatures remain high across several parts of the country.

Speaking at a media briefing on El Nino weather conditions at the Health Promotion Bureau yesterday (19), she said excessive heat exposure could cause a range of health problems, including skin rashes and muscle cramps.

She said the risk is particularly high among young children, elderly people and those ...