Telangana health department warns of heatstroke symptoms as temperatures set to rise further

With temperatures expected to rise further over the next three days, the Telangana Health Department on Sunday (May 17, 2026) warned citizens to watch for symptoms such as confusion, seizures, rapid heartbeat and body temperatures above 40℃, all of which could indicate severe heat-related illness requiring immediate medical attention.

In an advisory issued by the Directorate of Public Health and Family Welfare, the department said the India Meteorological Department (IMD), has forecast a gradual increase of 2℃ to 3℃ in maximum temperatures across Telangana over the coming days. This is the third heatwave advisory issued by the health department this summer.

The advisory cautioned people against venturing outdoors between 12 noon and 3 p.m., when heat exposure is at its peak. Citizens were also advised to avoid strenuous physical activity during the afternoon and not walk barefoot outdoors.

The Health Department urged people to stay hydrated by drinking sufficient water even if they are not thirsty and recommended using Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS), lemon water, buttermilk, and fruit juices to prevent dehydration. People travelling outdoors have been advised to carry water bottles. The advisory also encouraged consumption of seasonal fruits and vegetables with high water content, including watermelon, musk melon, oranges, grapes, pineapples and cucumbers.

The department further advised citizens to remain indoors as much as possible in cool and well-ventilated areas. Households were told to keep windows and curtains closed during the daytime, especially on the sunny side of houses, and open them during the night to allow cooler air circulation.

Among the danger signs listed by the Health Department were nausea, vomiting, hot and dry skin, throbbing headache, dizziness, fainting, muscle cramps, rapid heartbeat and rapid shallow breathing.