Soaring temperatures during a heatwave not only make daily life uncomfortable but also pose significant threats to human health and the environment. Here’s how to stay cool and safe.

Heatwaves can have far-reaching impacts, from risking human health to damaging crops and increasing wildfire hazards. In 2019, extreme heat caused an estimated 356,000 deaths globally, making it a severe yet often overlooked natural hazard. Although estimates vary (the World Health Organization cites 166,000 deaths between 1998 and 2017), it is clear that heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense, largely due to climate change.

The "heat dome" that caused a record heatwave in the southern US in 2023, including Texas and Louisiana, was five times more likely due to human-induced climate change, with temperatures exceeding 119°F (48°C) and 110 million Americans under heat warnings by mid-July 2023. The energy grid in Texas struggled with the increased demand for air conditioning. Similar conditions occurred in 2024, with heat domes bringing extreme temperatures to Mexico and many parts of the US. The World Weather Attribution group found that the heatwaves in California, Nevada, Arizona, and Mexico in May and early June 2024 were 35 times more likely due to climate change.

In the US, an estimated 1,600 people die each year from extreme heat, which also strains health services. The BBC science team has covered various aspects of coping with extreme hot weather, and here are some key tips to stay cool during a heatwave:

1. Avoid the Sun: Stay indoors or in the shade between 11 am and 3 pm, the hottest part of the day.
2. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, both hot and cold (avoid hot drinks in very humid weather), and limit alcohol consumption.
3. Eat Hydrating Foods: Consume foods with high water content like strawberries, cucumbers, lettuce, and watermelon. Spicy foods can also help by increasing sweating.
4. Wear Loose Clothing: Choose loose-fitting clothes that allow air to circulate next to your skin. Materials like cotton and polyester can be good choices, but newer fabrics might offer better comfort.
5. Manage Indoor Temperature: Keep windows closed if it’s hotter outside and draw curtains to block out sunlight.
6. Use Natural Cooling: Take cold showers, swim, or use fans to circulate air over a bowl of ice or wet sheets. However, fans may be less effective above 35°C (95°F) and can add heat to the room.
7. Long-term Adaptations: Implement cooling measures like wind catchers, green roofs, and planting trees to keep cities cool. Reflective pavements and rooftops can also help reduce heat absorption.
8. Sleep Comfortably: Maintain an ideal sleep environment with temperatures between 19-21°C (66-70°F). Use thin sheets, fans, and keep curtains shut during the day. Avoid late-night snacks to prevent elevated body temperatures.

In summary, as climate change exacerbates the frequency and intensity of heatwaves, it’s essential to adopt both immediate and long-term strategies to stay cool and safe.

                                                                                                                                                                                      Source: BBC News