Let’s face it, Nigeria knows heat! Our country is currently experiencing a severe heat wave, with temperatures soaring above 40°C in some parts of the country. The extreme heat has caused discomfort, health risks, and coupled with the recurrent power outages for majority of the population, many have started speaking up about the discomforting state of being in Nigeria at this intense “summer” time. In this article,we will try to explain what is causing the heat wave, how it can affect your health, and what you can do to stay safe and healthy.
What is causing the heat wave?
According to the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), the heat wave is caused by a transition between moist and wet air mass blowing over the country along a northeastern direction from the Atlantic Ocean, and dry and dusty air mass blowing over the country in the opposite southwestern direction from the Sahara desert. Lagos in particular, has been averaging temperatures as high as 38°C during the day for the past 4 weeks.
These weather conditions have disrupted the usual rain and harmattan seasons, leading to a lack of clear-cut seasons, this was confirmed by the random week of harmattan Lagosians experienced towards the tail end of January. Coastal areas like Lagos are particularly affected by these sticky and humid conditions, as the moisture-laden sea winds, combined with the dry and dusty harmattan winds, have created an oppressive atmosphere, which can be particularly hostile for people with any form of breathing disorder.
NiMet predicts that the heat wave will last until June 2024, as the country is currently in a La Nina phase, which is causing abnormal temperature fluctuations and disruptions in weather patterns across the globe.
How can the heat wave affect your health?
The heat wave can pose serious health risks, such as dehydration, heat exhaustion, heatstroke, meningitis, and skin infections. These conditions can be fatal if not treated promptly and properly. Some symptoms to watch out for include:
- Thirst, dry mouth, and reduced urine output
- Headache, dizziness, and confusion
- Muscle cramps, weakness, and fatigue
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Rapid heartbeat, breathing difficulty, and chest pain
- High body temperature, red skin, and loss of consciousness
Exposure to excessive heat can also worsen existing health conditions, such as respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, and renal disease. These are some of the top causes of death globally, according to the WHO.
The heat wave can also affect your mental health, as it can cause irritability, anxiety, depression, and insomnia. It can also impair your cognitive functions, such as memory, attention, and decision-making5.
How can you stay safe and healthy during the heatwave?
The best way to prevent heat-related illnesses is to avoid exposure to the sun and high temperatures as much as possible. Some of the recommended measures include:
- Stay indoors during the hottest hours of the day, usually between 11 am and 4 pm
- Use fans, air conditioners, or other cooling devices if available
- Drink plenty of water and fluids, but avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks
- Wear light, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing, preferably made of cotton or linen
- Apply sunscreen, wear a hat, sunglasses, and cover exposed skin when going outside
- Seek shade and avoid strenuous activities when outdoors
- Check on the elderly, children, and people with chronic diseases who may be more vulnerable to the heat
- Seek medical attention immediately if you or someone else shows signs of heat-related illness.
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