A deadly heat wave has claimed hundreds of lives in India in the last few days, with the toll crossing 500 as temperatures soar above 48 degrees Celsius.
Andhra Pradesh and Telangana are the worst-hit with over 400 deaths. This is the first time that so many deaths have been reported from a heat wave in so less time in the two states, even before the bifurcation.
Khammam in Telangana is blistering under temperatures reaching up to 48 degrees Celsius.
Other places such as Nalgonda, Nizamabad, and Karimnagar in Telangana are also facing the heat, while in Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam, Rajahmundry, Srikakulam and Vizianagaram are among the worst-hit.
Locals have been asked not to venture outside during the day without proper protection against the blistering heat.
Here are some important Do's and Don'ts to follow during a heatwave so as to avoid sunstrokes, as prescribed by the National Disaster management Authority.
Do's during a heat wave -
- Recognise the signs of heat stroke, heat rash or heat cramps such as weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, sweating and seizures.
- Drink water and oral hydration drinks
- Rest in shade, take breaks if you must work in the sun
- Place a cool, wet cloth on your head to cool off
- Check on neighbours and elderly family to ensure they are keeping cool
- Wear light and loose clothes
- Use an umbrella or hat or cover head with a cloth
Don'ts during a Heat Wave
- Do not go out in the direct sun
- Avoid extensive physical activity
- Do not send children or pets out in the sun or leave them in closed vehicles.
- Do not consume caffeinated drinks (like aerated drinks) and alcohol during extreme heat
- Avoid wearing dark, heavy or tight clothing
- Avoid cooking during peak heat hours. If you must cook, open doors and windows to ventilate the cooking area adequately.
