NiMet Predicts Harsh Weather, Sensitises Nigerians to Heat Stress, Stroke

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The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has forecasted likely heat stress across the country.

In a weather alert accompanied by a pictorial representation of the map of the country marked with five different colours, the agency indicated the degree of the heat stress.

Kano, Gombe, Sokoto, Yobe, and about eight other states in the North were advised to take action because of the extreme danger of the harsh weather, which could lead to sunstroke.

Sunstroke is a “serious condition that happens when someone has been in the sun too long and that causes a person to stop sweating, have a very high body temperature and become exhausted or unconscious”.

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Kaduna, Kwara, Niger, Kogi and a few other states were advised to prepare as the heat stress could lead to muscle cramps, heatstroke, and heat exhaustion.

The agency also advised those in Ekiti, Akwa Ibom, Ondo, and Osun states to be extremely cautious as the weather could lead to muscle cramps, heatstroke (the most serious heat-related illness that occurs when the body can no longer control its temperature) and heat exhaustion.

To cope with the heat, NiMet advised residents in the states that could be affected to: “Drink lots of water, as much as possible, find air-conditioned places to cool off, do not leave kids in a closed or parked vehicle, for the outdoors, use a hat and sunshades and keep infants well-aerated and hydrated.

“Wear light, breathable clothing to reduce the effect of high temperatures, reduce strenuous physical activity during peak heat hours (stay indoors as much as possible between 12 noon and 4 a.m.).”

The agency added that public awareness campaigns and education about heat stress risks and preventive measures were essential.

It explained that heat stress is the product of so many factors: humidity, sun, wind (ventilation), hydration, clothing, and physical fitness.

NiMet expressed hope that rainfall in some parts of the South may temporarily reduce the temperatures.