Heatwave in Europe: Recommendations for protecting yourself from high temperatures if you are traveling to this region
After a heat wave hit Spain and Portugal, it is now moving toward eastern Europe. Experts warn that countries like Germany could face extreme temperatures of up to 40°C, as has been forecast in Mannheim.
A young woman dips her head into the cool water of a fountain in Berlin's Lustgarten Park. Photo: AFP
In Portugal, two-thirds of the country was on high alert Sunday for extreme heat and wildfires , a situation similar to that experienced on the Italian island of Sicily, where firefighters battled 15 blazes on Saturday alone.
France, for its part, has also been affected. On Tuesday, a red heat alert was activated for the first time in five years, and the government confirmed two deaths related to illnesses caused by high temperatures.
Some countries have taken measures to protect both their citizens and tourists . In Italy, for example, the Civil Protection Department in Rome set up air-conditioned tents and set up five water distribution points in different parts of the city.
People cool off under a sprinkler in Lille, northern France. Photo: AFP
According to UNICEF, a heat wave occurs when temperatures remain above normal levels for several consecutive days. This phenomenon, intensified by climate change and high greenhouse gas emissions , is becoming not only more frequent but also more intense over time.
If you plan to travel to Europe in the coming days, specifically to countries where extremely high temperatures have been recorded, it's important to take some precautions to avoid heatstroke, dehydration, and other heat-related illnesses.
UNICEF warns that excessive heat can pose a greater risk to infants, children, and pregnant women , as dehydration in these populations can become dangerous and even fatal.
People line up at a public fountain to fill their water bottles in Rome, Italy. Photo: AFP
Below, we share a list of recommendations to protect yourself from intense heat:
- The first thing you should do during a heat wave is to find out about the temperature and humidity in your area . This way, you can plan your activities throughout the day.
- Keep a first aid kit on hand with oral rehydration salt packets, water bottles, a fan, and towels.
- Keep your home, hotel room, or office cool. Lower the curtains during the hottest hours of the day (10:00 am to 4:00 pm) and try using fans or air conditioning to regulate the temperature.
- Do not walk for long periods of time in the sun, especially during the hottest times of the day.
- If you decide to go outside, pack sunscreen in your backpack. Remember that this product should be reapplied every three hours (or even less), depending on various factors. Also, bring sunglasses, hats, caps, and umbrellas, as they will provide greater protection.
- Don't forget to bring a small towel that you can wet to refresh areas of your body like your face or neck.
- Stay hydrated. Drink water even if you're not thirsty. That way, you'll keep your body in top condition. And if you can drink mineral water, even better.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing . This will help you feel less stuffy.
- Do not do intense physical activity in high temperatures.
- Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages. This will only dehydrate you further.
Authorities warn of high temperatures in Europe this time of year. Photo: AFP
ANGIE RODRÍGUEZ - TRAVEL EDITORIAL - @ANGS0614
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