The sweltering conditions of the heat wave can have widespread consequences, spanning from threats to human well-being to devastating effects on agriculture and the heightened risk of wildfires.
According to a 2019 report, approximately 356,000 lives were lost globally due to the extreme heat, rendering heat wave one of the most difficult yet often overlooked natural disasters.
Although there remains considerable uncertainty regarding the full extent of damage caused by heatwaves (with the World Health Organization estimating approximately 166,000 deaths between 1998 and 2017, for instance), it’s undeniable that the global population exposed to such extreme heat events is on the rise.
If you are reading this, chances are you are currently in Nigeria and you need help with how to deal with this sweltering weather before you lose your cool. Guess what? We’re in it together. As a Nigerian, finally sighting the AFCON2023 trophy without getting to lift it is enough for anyone to completely lose their cool, and then the heat? No way!
So, in this article, we’ll explore five helpful ways to stay cool despite the hot weather without allowing the heatwave to get in the way of your daily activities.
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Drink a lot of water
Staying hydrated keeps you refreshed all day long. Water keeps your body cool and should always be taken even if you don’t feel thirsty. Don’t wait till you’re thirsty before taking water. Keep a water bottle by your side at all times.
2. Take a cold shower or bath
Bathing with cold water helps to lower your body temperature due to its air conditioning effect. Cold water also reduces heat and provides immediate relief from the discomfort of the hot temperatures.
3. Make watermelon your go-to snack
Watermelon is composed of 92% water making it an excellent choice of snack for hydration and cooling effect. It is also interesting to know that this miracle fruit contains essential electrolytes like potassium, which helps replenish lost nutrients due to sweating during hot weather.
4. Dress the part
As much as we all want to dress to impress even as we go about our daily activities out there, fashion may not be the first thing on your mind during the heat wave. Choose light outfits to keep you cooler and light colours to help reflect the heat and sunlight. Apply some sunscreen to protect your skin from the UV rays. Also, don’t forget to complement your outfits with sunglasses or a hat to shade yourself from the sun.
5. Close curtains and blinds when indoors
Sun’s rays coming through the windows can increase the temperature in your room. Closed curtains and blinds provide insulation and better insulation means less heat.
On a final note, remember that being exposed to too much heat can cause heatstroke. Therefore endeavour to take precautions and don’t go out when the sun is at its hottest.
