Bhatkal: Over the past two days, Bhatkal and several coastal regions of Karnataka, particularly Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts, have been experiencing continuous fluctuations in weather conditions.

As evening sets in and darkness begins to spread, the temperature drops suddenly, turning the weather noticeably cold. The chill intensifies through the night and becomes even colder by morning. The evening temperature is recorded at around 26°C, which further dips to nearly 22°C by early morning. In contrast, the afternoons remain hot due to strong sunlight, driving temperatures back up to around 30°C.

This abrupt shift in weather has raised concerns about a possible rise in cases of cold, fever, and other infections among the public.

According to doctors, such fluctuating weather conditions can lead to complaints of throat pain, cold, cough, and fever, with children being particularly vulnerable.

Although the region received good rainfall earlier, stagnant water at several locations has not dried up during the ongoing dry spell. As a result, reports suggest an increase in the breeding of mosquitoes responsible for spreading dengue.

The Health Department has urged residents to follow necessary preventive measures to safeguard themselves from mosquito-borne diseases.

Schools have been instructed to maintain proper hygiene, and children are being advised to follow health precautions.

As part of preventive steps, the public has been advised to keep their surroundings clean and dry, wash hands and feet regularly, consume immunity-boosting foods, drink hot water, and eat freshly prepared meals.