BY FIONA MOTSA
MBABANE– Temperatures have risen and navigating around them is fundamental!
With temperatures souring high, the Ministry of Health has shared tips with emaSwati on how to curb the scorching heat.
The Ministry of Health Promotion Officer Calvin Dlamini said emaSwati should try and keep away from the sun as a lot of diseases could arise because of the heat.
“We would encourage people to try and stay in shaded areas and wear sun hats that cover their neck and arm. This is to protect their skin from severe sunburn which could further lead to other diseases like skin cancer. It is also important to keep yourself hydrated by drinking a lot of water throughout the day.
“Those who do road work or fieldwork should do it early in the morning before the sun becomes hot or do it in the evening when the sun has set to be safe from the heat wave,” said Dlamini.
Eswatini Meteorologist, Dumisani Sithole said people should expect even higher temperatures until next Wednesday.
“Temperatures are expected to soar as high as 40 degrees Celsius in the Lowveld and 30 degrees Celsius in the Highveld.
“There will be strong heatwaves for the next six days. On Wednesday next week, there will be a difference in temperatures.”
Sithole further mentioned the cause of high temperatures was because of the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone.
“There seems to be a problem. The Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone which typically comes on December 23 is out of position and has not crossed our region. The effects are usually felt 30 days later,” said Sithole.
According to WebMD, effects of high temperatures include excessive thirst, weakness, headache, loss of consciousness and salt depletion. Other signs include nausea and vomiting, muscle cramps, and dizziness.
Recommended strategies include drinking plenty of fluids, especially sports drinks to replace lost salt (avoid caffeine and alcohol). Removing any tight or unnecessary clothing. Also take a cool shower or bath.
