Over the last few weeks, Nigeria has been gripped by an extreme heatwave, with meteorologists predicting no reprieve until the seasonal rains arrive.
Nigeria has a dry and wet environment that may be scorching on some days, especially during the dry season and the current stretch of sustained heat across the country is being regarded by many as the worst in recent history.
It reached 42 degrees in certain regions of the nation, a temperature that may be harmful to one’s health, producing dehydration and, in severe situations, heatstroke, which can be fatal.
It may also aggravate the symptoms of existing disorders.
Since February, excessive heat has been in effect. As individuals struggle to adapt, officials have issued warnings about the hazards posed by high temperatures.
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Climate change, according to environmental scientists, has become a public health danger.
When there are heatwaves, the body becomes dehydrated; the young, the old, and individuals who live sedentary lives are the types of people that have acute health reactions to the heatwave.
The intense warmth is forecast to last until May when seasonal showers will travel north throughout the country.
Environmental scientists have urged governments to develop long-term strategies to mitigate the consequences of climate change by lowering carbon emissions and enforcing tree-cutting prohibitions.
Some health advice for surviving a heatwave crisis
1. Avoid alcohol and caffeine drinks because they can cause the body to lose more fluids through urine.
2. Use a sun hat or umbrella outdoors.
3. Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
4. Stay indoors as much as possible.
5. Avoid strenuous activity, especially during the hottest part of the day. If you must be outside, take regular breaks.
6. Check at least daily on older people, sick or obese people and people who are socially isolated.
7. If you suspect someone is suffering from a heat-related problem: Get him out of the heat and into a shady area or air-conditioning.
Help him to bathe or sponge off with cool water.
8. If he is conscious and can swallow safely, offer cool water, fruit or vegetable juices. No alcohol or caffeine.
9. Stay hydrated
10. Use sunscreen to protect your skin
11. Stay in the coolest parts of the house
12. Eat small but frequent meals to stay energized throughout the day
13. Stay out of the sun
14. If you work outdoors, take frequent breaks to stay out of the sun.
15. Take frequent showers whenever necessary
16. Wear loose-fitting and light clothes
What’s a heatwave?
When compared to the area’s regular seasonal weather and temperatures, a heatwave is a protracted period of abnormally hot weather, frequently with significant humidity.
heatwaves kill more people than all other natural disasters combined.
