In response to the current heatwave across the Maldives, numerous schools have granted permission for students to attend classes in their activity uniforms on a daily basis if they wish to do so.

Typically, Sunday is the designated day for students to wear official school uniforms. In some schools, recent changes to the official attire include the requirement of a necktie. However, several parents have raised concerns regarding the official uniform fabric, noting that it causes discomfort, particularly for students with skin sensitivities.

To ensure the comfort of students during their studies, schools have now authorized the use of activity uniforms throughout the week.

"As this period marks the peak of the heat season in the Maldives, students are permitted to attend school in their activity uniforms every day until the end of May. Furthermore, we advise students to take necessary precautions against solar radiation and heat while commuting, maintain adequate hydration, and adhere to the guidelines issued by the Health Protection Agency (HPA)," stated a message shared by a school in the Greater Male' Area on a parents' Viber group.

Additionally, schools have counseled parents to be extra vigilant about protecting children from sun exposure during outdoor activities and to ensure they consume plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.

According to the Maldives Meteorological Service (MET Office), the perceived temperature across various parts of the country is expected to rise throughout this month and the next, with some areas already recording temperatures exceeding 37 degrees Celsius.

MET Office records from 11:00 AM today show:

  • Hanimaadhoo: Temperature 31°C, Perceived 37.4°C
  • Hulhule: Temperature 31.6°C, Perceived 36.3°C
  • Kadhdhoo: Temperature 31.8°C, Perceived 36.1°C
  • Kaadedhdhoo: Temperature 31.4°C, Perceived 35.6°
  • CGan: Temperature 31.4°C, Perceived 34.5°C

While the average actual temperature in the Maldives during this period remains around 32°C, high humidity levels cause the heat index—the temperature perceived by the human body—to range between 32°C and 45°C. This level is classified as a health category requiring "caution."

Precautions to stay safe during extreme heat:

  • Minimize sun exposure between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM.
  • Use umbrellas when outdoors.
  • Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing that covers the body.
  • Wear wide-brimmed hats for better shade when outside.
  • Apply sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher if spending extended time in the sun.
  • Increase water intake.
  • Reduce consumption of sugary and caffeinated beverages.
  • Use sunglasses that filter UV radiation.