Extreme heat temperatures all across Romania

A Red Flag Weather Warning has been issued and is now in effect until Saturday evening for 12 counties in the West of Romania, and an Orange Flag Weather for the rest of the country.

Extreme heat temperatures are expected, in comparison with the absolut records for this period.

Mercury will climb in thermometers up to 39-42 degrees, and the thermal discomfort index will often reach 84 units. Meteorologists say, however, that the heat wave will gradually narrow towards the Southern regions, but major changes will not occur until mid-next week. Until then, doctors advise people not to get out of homes between 11:00 and 18:00, if possible, to drink a lot of water.

The red alert code requires maximum mobilization measures from local and central authorities, hospitals, ambulance services, SMURD, State Sanitary Inspection and family doctors.

Public health specialist, Florentina Furtunescu: Local public authorities have to provide places where people can rest a little, drink water and request shelter or water from the economic operators in their area (shops, offices), that are asked to provide the support the citizens require. Hospitals prioritize admissions of the most serious cases such as people with severe chronic illness, heart disease, diabetes, who can worsen their health condition especially when exposed to high heat. Hospitals have supplemented their capacity so that they can handle the increased current demands.

HEALTH MINISTRY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR HIGH TEMPERATURES

The Ministry of Health recommends that the population takes into account doctors' advice and avoid, if possible, prolonged sun exposure between 11 and 18 hours.

It is absolutely necessary that people who have to leave the house between mid-afternoon should wear sun hats, light and wide clothing, natural fibers and light colors.

During periods of heat it is recommended that people drink as much water as possible, without waiting to be thirsty. A glass of water (or equivalent) is required every 15 to 20 minutes.

Doctors also advise us to consume as many fruit and vegetables as possible (melon, plums, cucumbers, tomatoes) every day, as they contain a lot of water. Remember that a dose of yogurt produces the same hydration as a glass of water.

Alcohol (including beer or wine) should not be consumed because it favors dehydration and reduces the body's ability to fight the heat. It is imperative to avoid beverages containing high caffeine (coffee, tea, cola) or sugar (carbonated soft drinks) because they are diuretic.

During the day, it is good to make warm showers without wiping out water, and if we have air conditioning, the appliance must be adjusted so that the temperature is 5 degrees below the ambient temperature.

If you do not have air conditioning at home, at work, spend 2-3 hours a day in air-conditioned rooms (public spaces, pharmacies, church, shops).

Avoid outdoor activities that require high energy consumption (sports, gardening, etc.) and take care of people who are dependent on you (children, the elderly, people with disabilities) by regularly providing them with liquids even if they do not require them.

Individuals suffering from certain medical conditions will continue their treatment as advised by their doctor. It is very useful for people with chronic, cardiovascular, hepatic, renal, pulmonary, circulatory, mental, or hypertension chronic conditions to consult their physician in order to adapt the therapeutic scheme to the current weather conditions.

In the case of children now in summer camps, doctors recommend that food strictly adhere to hygiene standards and be fresh and attendants should take care of the children adequate hydration. During the day, children will be supervised and playgrounds should be placed in the shade. Bathing, where appropriate, will also be done under the absolute supervision of the attendant.

Source:RRA.Translated by Miruna Matei