\n<\/p>\n
He pointed out that the government has ongoing heat stress management initiatives, whether or not a heatwave is forecast, such as issuing heat stress advisories.<\/p>\n
The advisory also provides tips for the public to plan prolonged outdoor activities based on prevailing heat stress levels, while there are sector-specific measures such as the Ministry of Manpower\u2019s heat stress framework for outdoor work.<\/p>\n
In his supplementary questions, Mr Yong asked if Singapore\u2019s current approach based on the advisory is sufficient. He asked if there are plans to introduce a more formalised alert system with thresholds and corresponding measures, as well as expand the network of heat sensors across the island.<\/p>\n
On the advisory, Dr Puthucheary replied: “I would characterise our position thus, and I would say it is robust, it’s formalised, it’s actionable. Of course, we’ll continue to improve it.”<\/p>\n
He said that since 2023, the Mercury Taskforce \u2014 which involves more than 30 public sector agencies \u2014 has in place sector-specific response plans.<\/p>\n
Singapore also has clear definitions of heatwaves in place since 2016 \u2014 \u00a0and last updated in 2023 \u2014 which guide action.\u00a0<\/p>\n
When thresholds for heat are reached, the MSS issues advisories which trigger agency-specific action plans, Dr Puthucheary said.<\/p>\n
He added that Singapore has good sensor coverage, with 19 weather stations and 27 wet bulb globe temperature stations across the island.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n