If you live in India, you’re probably trying to figure out how to deal with the heat. This is because the country is currently undergoing an extreme heatwave. Recently, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a severe heatwave warning as temperatures continue to rise above normal. In fact, mercury has already risen above the 45°C mark in several states across the country.
While heatwaves are common in India, this year the temperature began to soar pre-maturely—as early as March. Average maximum temperatures during the month were the highest recorded over the last 122 years. But how long will this extreme weather last? The IMD has forecast a gradual rise in maximum temperatures by 2-4°C over most parts of north-western and central India this week. The worst part? According to the IMD, no changes are expected thereafter.
Let’s understand what a heatwave is and how to protect ourselves from it.
What Is A Heatwave?
Accordng to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), heatwave is a period of abnormally high temperatures, more than the normal maximum temperature that occurs during the summer season in the North-Western parts of India. Heatwaves typically occur between March and June, and in some rare cases even extend till July. The extreme temperatures and resultant atmospheric conditions adversely affect people living in these regions, as they cause physiological stress, sometimes resulting in death.
The IMD says that heatwave is considered if the maximum temperature of a station reaches at least 40°C or more for plains, or at least 30°C or more for hilly regions.
How Do Heatwaves Affect Us?
Heatwaves can have severe impact on our health, including dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and/or heat stroke. Watch out for the following symptoms:
–Heat Cramps: Ederna (swelling) and Syncope (fainting) generally accompanied by fever below 102°F
–Heat Exhaustion: Fatigue, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps and sweating
–Heat Stoke: Body temperatures of 104°F or more along with delirium, seizures or coma. This is a potentially fatal condition, so if you or someone you know is suffering from these symptoms, seek medical assistance immediately.
How To Help Someone Suffering In The Heat
If you think someone might be severely affected by the heatwave, here’s how you can help them, according to the NDMA:
*Move the person to a cool place under the shade
*Give water or a rehydrating drink (if the person is still conscious)
*Fan the person
*Consult a doctor if symptoms get worse or the person is unconscious
*Do not give them alcohol, caffeine or an aerated drink
*Cool the person by putting a cool wet cloth on their face/body
*Loosen clothes for better ventilation
How To Protect Yourself From The Heatwave
It’s important to know how to shield yourself from the extreme heat. Follow these steps to keep yourself safe:
So fam, let’s try to protect ourselves from the heat—stay indoors, and if you must step out, make sure you’re adequately quipped to deal with the heat!
*Always keep yourself hydrated. Drink a glass of water every few hours.
*Avoid stepping out during the day
*If you must step out, make sure you carry a flash with cool water and keep sipping it at regular intervals
*Avoid any strenuous activities while stepping out, for eg: running or carrying heavy items
*Wear loose, breathable cotton garments that are lightweight and light coloured
*Avoid drinking alcohol, soda or any other dehydrating beverage
*Carry an umbrella or head covering to protect yourself from the direct sun
*Keep an emergency kit handy, including a bottle of water, a hand towel and ORS solution
Featured Image: Pixabay