Excessive Heat Warning Continues Through Sunday

Residents of Antigua and Barbuda are being urged to take precautions as dangerously hot conditions are expected to continue through Sunday, with temperatures feeling as high as 43 degrees Celsius or 109 degrees Fahrenheit.

The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service issued an excessive heat warning on Wednesday morning that will remain in effect from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily until Sunday.

The combination of high temperatures, relatively high humidity and light winds will create dangerously hot conditions throughout the islands.

The maximum heat index, which is the perceived temperature by the body based on the combination of air temperature and humidity, is expected to reach around 43 degrees Celsius or 109 degrees Fahrenheit. These peak conditions are likely to occur during the early afternoons.

The Meteorological Service issues an excessive heat warning when the maximum heat index is expected to be 41 degrees Celsius or 106 degrees Fahrenheit or higher for two or more consecutive days with winds of 18 kilometers per hour or 11 miles per hour or less.

While extreme heat can put everyone at risk for heat illnesses, health risks are greatest for certain groups. The elderly, young children, people with chronic illnesses such as breathing difficulties, heart conditions or psychiatric illnesses face elevated risks.

People who work or exercise in the heat, homeless individuals and low-income earners are also particularly vulnerable.
The risk of health problems, mainly for sensitive people, is medium, according to the Meteorological Service.

The excessive heat can lead to heat illnesses, including heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat illnesses can lead to long-term health problems, and heat stroke can be fatal.

Symptoms of heat illness include dizziness or fainting, nausea or vomiting, headache, rapid breathing and heartbeat, or extreme thirst.

Anyone experiencing these symptoms should immediately move to a cool place and drink liquids. Water is best.

The most dangerous heat illness is heat stroke, which has symptoms that include complete or partial loss of consciousness or confusion and high body temperature.

If someone is exhibiting these symptoms, authorities say to call 911 immediately. While waiting for help, the person should be cooled right away by moving them to a cool place, applying cold water to large areas of the skin or clothing, and fanning the person as much as possible.

The Meteorological Service is urging everyone to stay alert and take precautions by staying cool and hydrated. Residents should check on vulnerable family members, friends and neighbours during this period.

People 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.