Here is all you need to know to beat the heat
Srinagar, May 21: With day temperatures breaching the 30-degrees Celsius mark, Kashmir is getting battered by the heat wave, putting the residents under duress and threat of heat exposure.
The Department of Disaster Management, J&K Government, had directed Divisional Commissioners of Kashmir and Jammu divisions, as well as Deputy Commissioners (DCs) to prepare for the upcoming harsh weather on April 4 this year.
Greater Kashmir takes its readers through various aspects of heat waves that can help one stay safe and healthy during the peak summer months.
WHAT IS HEATWAVE?
Heatwave temperatures vary between plains and hilly areas. In India, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) states that for the plains-like parts of Jammu division, it is a heatwave when the maximum temperature is 40 degrees Celsius or more, and the temperature deviation from normal is 4.5 degrees Celsius or more.
For hilly areas like Kashmir, it is a heatwave when the maximum temperature reaches 30 degrees Celsius, and the departure in temperature is 5 degrees Celsius or more from the normal.
In Srinagar, the maximum temperature on May 15 this year was 30 degrees Celsius.
On May 17, it reached 31.5 degrees Celsius.
On May 18, it hit a higher bar, crossing 32 degrees Celsius, recording 32.2 degrees Celsius.
The forecast for May 20 to 26 predicts the day temperatures in Srinagar to be around 33 degrees Celsius as per the IMD website.
This high day-time temperature is a typical heat wave, likely to continue as per the available meteorological data.
WHAT DOES A HEAT WAVE DO?
The drastic rise in temperatures can be dangerous and lead to serious health effects.
Although most people who stay indoors or maintain care and precautions will remain healthy, prolonged exposure to heat could lead to health impacts.
COMMON HEALTH CONCERNS
Heat Exhaustion: Heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, and nausea are caused by prolonged exposure to heat. Children are at a higher risk as they tend to play in the sun and care less for hydration and shade.
Heatstroke: It is a medical emergency. The body heats up and loses its ability to control temperature. The body temperature exceeds 40 degrees Celsius. The symptoms include rapid pulse, headache, confusion, loss of consciousness, organ failure, and even death in extreme cases.
Dehydration: The high temperatures make the body lose water rapidly. It could prove especially dangerous for children, the elderly, and outdoor workers like labourers.
Worsening of Chronic Illnesses: Some serious conditions like heart, kidney or respiratory diseases can worsen with the heatwave.
SAVING FROM HEAT WAVE?
Stay in Shade: The best way to stay cooler is to stay out of the sun, although, at times, even shady places can have very high temperatures. Limit exposure to direct sunlight. Avoid strenuous outdoor activities during peak heat hours - 12 noon to 4 pm.
Watch What You Wear: Wear light cotton clothing, avoid synthetics and thick fabrics as these cause body temperature to rise, and do not allow sweat to evaporate. Do not over-dress children. Doctors advise against swaddling and wrapping up newborns and infants during summer.
Stay Hydrated: Dehydration is one of the primary causes of heat impact on humans. Drink ample amounts of water, around the recommended eight glasses. Add electrolytes if you or those you care about have sweated more. Electrolytes are available at every pharma shop. Avoid sugary, salty, caffeinated drinks as these lead to more water loss.
Watch the Vulnerable: When in school, children must be kept in comfortable settings, safe from heat. They must be checked for signs of heat exhaustion.
Seek Help: If you or someone near you is experiencing nausea, vomiting, racing heart, no sweating, dizziness, confusion, or loss of consciousness, seek medical help immediately.
Remember: Your mindfulness and timely action can save someoneís life.
