Holidaymakers warned about heatwaves in popular European tourist spots
A heatwave is set to hit several popular tourist destinations in Europe.
According to reports, anyone travelling to Spain, Italy and Greece will be in for some extremely high temperatures and are being warned to prepare appropriately.
The Irish Sun reports that temperatures could hit the mid to upper 30s, with Spanish weather experts issuing a yellow warning for the region of Southern Andalucia this week.
Meanwhile, areas of Italy and Greece could hit 40C.
Warning tourists travelling into the countries, William Spencer, climate and first aid product manager at the British Red Cross, said “Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and getting worse because of climate change. Sadly, we have seen cases already this year of the tragic impact high temperatures can have on human life.”
He said “High temperatures make it harder for the body to cool itself and we all need to take care to manage the health risks of heat. If you are travelling to a country experiencing extreme heat, there are several steps you can take to keep yourself and others safe.”
Spencer warns “We would advise people to plan ahead for the effects of heat on their trip, making sure they know how to recognise the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.”
A heatwave is set to hit several EU countries (via Getty)
According to the HSE, the signs of heat exhaustion are as follows:
- a headache
- dizziness and confusion
- loss of appetite and feeling sick
- excessive sweating and pale, clammy skin
- cramps in the arms, legs and stomach
- fast breathing or pulse
- a high temperature of 38 degrees Celsius or above
- being very thirsty
If you are concerned for a friend or family member, you should move them to a cool place and get them to lie down raising their feet slightly. You should get them to drink plenty of water (Sports or rehydration drinks are OK) and cool their skin, using a spray or sponge with cool water and fan them.
You should seek urgent medical help if the following symptoms occur:
- feeling unwell after 30 minutes of resting in a cool place and drinking plenty of water
- not sweating even while feeling too hot
- a high temperature of 40 degrees Celsius or above
- fast breathing or shortness of breath
- feeling confused
- a fit (seizure)
- loss of consciousness
- not responsive
To avoid heat stroke, drink plenty of cold drinks, take cool baths or showers, wear light-coloured, loose clothing and avoid the sun between 11am and 3pm. It’s also important to avoid excess alcohol and avoid extreme exercise.
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