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An excessive heat watch goes into effect in Antigua and Barbuda from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm until Monday due to the possibility of excessive heat.
That’s the latest alert issued by climatologist Dale Destin.
In his latest release, he said the heat index or feels-like temperature could reach 38 °C or 100 °F or higher.
This could result in dangerously hot conditions due to light winds and relatively high humidity.
The threat of health problems, particularly for sensitive people, could rise to at least moderate levels with the potential for significant impacts.
The timing of the excessive heat event is still uncertain. An excessive heat watch is issued when conditions are conducive for an excessive heat event within the next 24 to 72 hours. The threshold heat index temperature required for a watch is 38 °C (100 °F) or higher for two or more consecutive days, with wind speeds usually being 18 km/h or 11 mph or less.
While everyone is at risk of heat illnesses during extreme heat, the elderly, young children, people with chronic illnesses such as breathing difficulties, heart conditions or psychiatric illnesses, people who work or exercise in the heat, homeless people, and low-income earners are at the greatest risk.
Heat illnesses such as heat stroke, exhaustion, fainting, cramps, rash, and edema are preventable but can lead to long-term health problems and even death.
If any symptoms of heat illness are present such as dizziness or fainting, nausea or vomiting, headache, rapid breathing, and heartbeat, or extreme thirst, it is important to immediately move to a cool place and drink liquids, preferably water.
Heat stroke is the most dangerous heat illness with symptoms that include complete or partial loss of consciousness or confusion and high body temperature. If caring for someone with those symptoms, call 911 immediately.
While waiting for help, cool the person right away by moving them to a cool place, applying cold water to large areas of the skin or clothing, and fanning them as much as possible.
It is important for everyone to stay alert and take precautions such as staying cool and hydrated. Check on vulnerable family members, friends, and neighbors.
Those who take medication or have a health condition should ask their doctor if it increases their health risk in the heat and follow their recommendations.
Be prepared for updates from the Meteorological Office through antiguamet.com, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube @abmetservice. This excessive heat watch will be updated accordingly, and there is a high chance that a warning will be required.
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