2023-07-15 09:16:19
Dubai, United Arab Emirates (CNN) — A deadly and deadly heat wave is sweeping Europe. It is likely to face record temperatures, while the continent is busy welcoming the influx of tourists.
Parts of Spain, France, Greece, Croatia and Italy are facing scorching heat, with temperatures topping 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit).
The European Space Agency said in a statement: “Temperatures are rising across Europe this week… and it’s just beginning.”
Heat is among the deadliest natural hazards, with more than 61,000 people dying last summer as a result of the severe heat wave that hit Europe.
The current heat wave has raised more concerns for people’s health, especially as it coincides with one of the busiest summer tourism periods in Europe.
In Italy, temperatures can reach record levels.
Sardinia and Sicily are expected to approach Europe’s current record temperature of 48.8 degrees Celsius, according to the European Space Agency.
On Friday, the Italian Ministry of Health issued a warning of severe health risks for 15 cities, including Rome and Florence. The heat wave is expected to continue on Saturday and Sunday.
It has already claimed at least one person in Italy.
In Rome, a number of tourists fell ill this week due to heatstroke, as a British tourist died in front of the ancient Roman Colosseum on Tuesday.
Italy “has a sad record with the highest number of deaths from heat waves,” Alessandro Meani, president of the Italian Society of Environmental Medicine (SIMA), told state broadcaster RAI on Wednesday.
In Greece, the authorities said temperatures might reach 44 degrees Celsius on Friday or Saturday.
According to forecasts by the Greek Meteorological Service, temperatures will peak at 42°C in Athens by midday.
And in Croatia, dozens of firefighters were deployed as a large forest fire broke out near Grabastica, a small town near the coastal city of Špinik, CNN affiliate N1 reported.
How do you keep your body cool?
Heat is known as the “silent killer” because you can’t see it, and it can quickly become deadly.
Heat exhaustion can cause dizziness, nausea, and headaches.
Heatstroke is considered dangerous and occurs when the body temperature rises to 40°C (104°F) and above.
It is essential to stay at home and avoid exercising during the hottest parts of the day, especially between 11 am and 3 pm.
And try to stay in the shade when you are outside.
Experts advise wearing loose-fitting clothing, a sunscreen hat and drinking plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty. But, avoid consuming alcohol and caffeinated beverages.
It’s also important to be aware of others, says Judith Linden, associate professor in the department of emergency medicine at Boston University School of Medicine.
“If someone feels dizzy, nauseous, or has a headache, this is the time to act immediately,” she told CNN this week. “They should be moved to a cool environment.”
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