India Heatwave Alert: Take Precautions To Beat The Heat & Stay Safe

Summer is the season for fun, frolic and scorching heat. As the temperature rises, it causes heat waves. And with the sudden spike in the temperature, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a high alert for a heatwave in various states across the nation. With the temperature near 45°C, a warning has been issued to stay safe and alert for the next 4 to 5 days. People exposed to direct sunlight for a prolonged period or are into any activity that increases body heat are at a higher risk of being affected.

Does that mean you need to stop going out? Well, it is not possible to stay indoors all the time, and you might need to go out for one or another reason. However, it would be better to avoid direct sunlight exposure as much as possible and avoid going out in the sun for unnecessary reasons, as it could otherwise impact your health. But to take charge of the condition, you first should have sufficient knowledge of the topic. Scroll down to the blog about heatwaves and precautions that can help you save during the scorching heat and rising temperature.

Heatwave – What Is It?

A heatwave is a scorching period that usually lasts 2-3 days. It can cause discomfort, and if not managed, it can lead to various health problems. Recently, heat waves have become more intense and are forecasted to last for many days.

Effects Of Heatwave – Understand The Effects To Manage Them Well

From mild exhaustion to severe heatstroke, heat waves can cause so many problems. Identifying the heatwave of heat stress signs early can save you from complications later on. Heat stroke signs to pay attention to are:

• A high body temperature is the most common sign of heatstroke.
• It also affects one’s behavior and causes irritability and confusion.
• The feeling of being sick to your stomach or vomiting.
• Your skin may look dull or tired and may turn red as hit by the heatwave.
• Heatwaves may also significantly increase your heart rate.
• Headache is another common sign of being affected by a heatwave.
• You might experience rapid and shallow breathing.

If you are experiencing heatstroke, do not take it lightly, and get yourself tested immediately. Heatwaves can cause health issues and even lead to severe conditions if not addressed wisely.

Who Is At More Risk?

Anyone can be affected by heatwave, irrespective of age and gender. However, certain conditions may put you at a higher risk than others.

• People who are under constant exposure to direct sunlight.
• People who are 65 or older are at higher risk of being affected.
• People have heart disease, high blood pressure, or other long-term illness.
• People taking heavy dosage medicines.
• Infants and children are more likely to be hit by a heatwave.

Tips To Protect From Heatwave:

There is so much you can do to protect yourself from a heatwave, such as:

• Stay Hydrated: Keeping yourself hydrated is the foremost step to minimizing our risks of being hit by a heatwave. With the sudden heatwave alert, doctors have been advised to stay hydrated and keep a water bottle handy while going out.
• Avoid Direct Sun Exposure: If possible, staying indoors for the next 3-4 days is highly advisable to avoid getting into the grip of a heatwave. Or, just in case there is a need to go out, carry your umbrella and wear summer-friendly clothes.
• Wear Light-Colored And Loose-Fitting Clothes: Wearing summer-friendly or breathable clothes during a heatwave or throughout the summer can reduce heat absorption and help your body maintain the ideal temperature.

In conclusion, with a few precautions and extra efforts, you can save yourself from the effects of a heatwave. According to IMD, the heatwave will continue in some parts of the country, while other parts will probably experience thunderstorms & rain. It is suggested that everyone take necessary precautions to avoid health hazards. For a healthy summer, book Redcliffe Labs’ Summer Special Package.