The summer sun is scorching – and it’s only getting hotter. With extreme temperatures on the rise, it’s more important than ever to stay hydrated, cool, and protected- and in some areas, heat waves could start to set in.
A heat wave is a period of unusually high temperatures, above the normal maximum temperature that happens throughout the summer in North-Western India. They usually happen between March and June, but sometimes they go into July. The body is under a lot of stress during these times of extreme heat, which can even be fatal. And therefore, it’s recommended to know everything about it.
What is a Heat Wave?
A heat wave definition is a prolonged time of very hot weather that may also be accompanied by high humidity, particularly near the coast. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issues a heat wave alert when the highest temperature hits at least 40°C on the plains or 30°C in the hills. When heat wave temperatures are significantly different from usual, often exceeding 45°C in many places, heat waves are more severe. Most of these things happen between March and June, but they can happen in July too.
The effects of heat waves can be high-risk, especially for children, the old, and people who already have long-term illnesses. Severe heat wave events are happening more often and for longer periods of time as global warming gets worse.
Health Impacts of Heat Waves
Heat waves greatly affect people’s health, especially the health of children, the old, and people who already have long-term illnesses. Some common health issues are:
- Heat Cramps: People who have heat cramps often have a low-grade fever and swell up, pass out, and hurt their muscles.
- Heat exhaustion: This includes feeling tired, dizzy, sweating a lot, feeling sick, and getting headaches.
- Heat Stroke: If you don’t treat heat stroke, which is a high body temperature (40°C or higher), confusion, seizures, or even coma, it can be deadly.
Causes of Heat Wave
Heat waves happen when specific atmospheric patterns trap heat over a particular area. Here are the principal causes of heat waves:
- Creating an area of high pressure in the higher atmosphere that keeps the heat from escaping.
- The weakening of the jet stream causes air masses to stay still.
- Cities have “heat islands” where concrete and asphalt soak up and send out heat.
- A severe heat wave occurs more frequently and lasts longer due to climate change.
Dos and Don’ts During Heatwave
Taking the right heat wave precautions can lower your risk of getting sick from the heat. Here are some things you should and shouldn’t do:
Things to do:
- Stay inside during the hottest parts of the day (12 p.m. to 3 p.m.)
- Even if you’re not thirsty, drink a lot of water
- Wear light-colored cotton clothes that don’t fit too tightly
- Take hats, sunglasses, and umbrellas with you when you go outside
- To cool off, take cold showers often
- Check on family members and neighbors who might be at risk
Things you shouldn’t do:
- Stay away from caffeine, booze, and carbonated drinks because they make you thirsty
- When you park your car, don’t leave kids or pets inside
- Do not do anything complicated outside when it is very hot
- Do not eat old or high-protein food
- If you feel dizzy or sick, don’t ignore your symptoms. Get medical help right away
Emergency Kit for Heat Wave
A simple emergency kit on hand could save your life during a heat wave warning. This is what your kit should have:
- A thermos or water bottle with cold drinks in it
- An umbrella, a hat, or a scarf to block the sun
- You can take Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS), glucose, or lemon water to stay hydrated
- A hand towel and a small fan will cool you down right away
- To keep the body cool, use wet wipes or a cloth
- Extra loose cotton cloth
- If you’re not at home or traveling during a heat wave alert, this kit can help you stay cool
Such tools are essential for anyone learning how to survive heat wave conditions.
Read More: The Impact of Loo Winds and How to Protect Yourself
Conclusion
When a heat wave alert is issued, it is essential to be aware of what a heat wave is and to take appropriate action. Because climate change is making severe heat waves more likely, being aware and ready is more important than ever. For our and our families’ safety, we can ensure we take the proper heat wave precautions and assemble emergency kits.
Remember that the most important things are to be aware, stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight, and limit outdoor activities.
Frequently Asked Questions Related to Heat Waves
