Beat the heat: BMA's 255 cooling centres open across Bangkok

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has opened 255 “cooling centres” across the capital to provide temporary shelter from the scorching heat, which is forecast to reach 41°C today.

The BMA has issued a warning that the heat index today is expected to reach the “Yellow” level (33°C–41.9°C). The heat index represents the temperature that humans actually feel, rather than the temperature measured by a thermometer.

High relative humidity prevents sweat from evaporating effectively, hindering the body’s primary cooling mechanism.

Instead of providing relief, sweat accumulates on the skin, forcing the body to work harder to reduce its temperature and increasing the risk of dehydration.

The BMA is advising people in Bangkok, especially those in high-risk groups such as the elderly, children, and pregnant women, to avoid outdoor activities between 11am and 3pm to prevent heatstroke and to drink plenty of clean water regularly.

The cooling centres are open at all 50 district offices in the capital, 10 occupational training schools, and sports and recreational centres from 10am to 3pm.

Everyone is welcome to use the services free of charge, including access to clean drinking water and medicines as required.

Those who are interested can check the locations of the cooling centres at greener.bangkok. (Note: The BMA has indicated that some information is currently being updated.)