Heatwave Alert Issued for Nepal: Three Days of High Temperatures Expected

Kathmandu. The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has indicated the possibility of 'heat' for the next three days in various parts of the country. 

According to the department, there is a possibility of moderate hot wave in some places in the Terai regions of Madhes and Lumbini provinces. Similarly, there is a possibility of hot days in some places in the Terai regions of Koshi, Bagmati, Gandaki, and Sudurpaschim provinces.

The notice published by the department states, 'The maximum temperature in some places in the Terai regions of these provinces is likely to be 38 degrees Celsius or higher.' The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority has requested to take precautions as extreme heat and hot air waves can have mild to severe effects on human health.

According to the authority, there is a high risk in various districts of the Terai. Among these, Sarlahi, Rautahat, Bara, Parsa, Nawalparasi (Bardaghat Susta West), Rupandehi, Kapilvastu, Banke, Bardiya, Jhapa, Morang, Sunsari, Chitwan, Nawalparasi (Bardaghat Susta East), Kailali, and Kanchanpur have been placed in the high-risk list.

Physical effects of heatwave:
Heatwaves can cause various negative effects on the body. Among these, symptoms such as 'increased body temperature, fatigue, weakness, excessive thirst, headache, leg cramps, dizziness, fainting, muscle pain' are prominent. In addition, problems like 'vomiting' and 'diarrhea' can also occur.

The authority has given some important suggestions to avoid the heatwave. It is advised to stay indoors as much as possible and avoid traveling during the daytime. 

If one has to go out, it is advised to use an umbrella or cover the head with a light cloth and wear loose, cool cotton clothes. It is also suggested to stay in open and cool places, drink plenty of water, eat lemon water and fruits, and avoid hot beverages like tea and coffee.

In addition, laborers or those who have to do a lot of physical work should do it in the morning or evening, children should not be allowed to play in excessive sun, and the elderly and chronically ill should pay more attention to their health. The authority has requested local levels to make necessary arrangements to avoid heatwaves and to go to a health worker or hospital immediately if any health problems arise.