Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Mariam Ileyemi
Published on 2024-02-28 18:20:41
The Nigerian government is taking proactive steps to address the heat wave currently affecting the country. The Federal Ministry of Environment has issued a new advisory in response to predictions from the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet) regarding prolonged and intense heat waves across Nigeria. NiMet has forecasted temperatures reaching up to 39°C in the South and 41°C in the North, warning of the potential health risks associated with such high heat levels, including dehydration, heat-related illnesses, and respiratory issues.
The Minister of State for Environment, Ishaq Salako, emphasized the importance of the advisory, stating that the heat wave is expected to persist for some time, despite the ongoing rainfall. The advisory highlights the serious health, social, environmental, and economic risks posed by exposure to heat waves, particularly for vulnerable groups such as infants, children, pregnant women, and the elderly. Common symptoms of heat stress, such as dry lips, excessive thirst, dizziness, and nausea, were also outlined.
To mitigate the impact of the heat wave, the Ministry of Environment recommended several preventive measures. Nigerians are advised to plan their outdoor activities to minimize exposure to the heat, keep an emergency kit at home with essential items like oral rehydration salt (ORS) packets, and practice measures such as closing curtains during the hottest parts of the day and staying hydrated. Wearing sunscreen, staying in the shade, and wearing light, loose-fitting clothing are also recommended to prevent heat-related illnesses.
The advisory also addressed the challenge of poor electricity supply exacerbating the heat wave situation. Many Nigerians have voiced concerns about the erratic power supply, which has made it difficult to stay cool during the sweltering conditions. The high cost of fuel, resulting from the removal of subsidies on petroleum products, has further limited access to alternative power sources like generators. In some instances, such as in Port Harcourt, women have protested against the lack of power, citing its impact on daily life.
In conclusion, the Nigerian government’s advisory on coping with the heat wave underscores the importance of taking precautions to protect against the adverse effects of high temperatures. By following the recommended preventive measures and staying informed about the risks associated with heat waves, individuals can better safeguard their health and well-being during this challenging period.
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