This year we have broken records when it comes to temperature all around the country. This has affected humans and the environment as a whole. The great phenomenon, “heat wave”.
In the summer in warm climates, an area of high pressure with little or no rain or clouds, the air and ground easily heats to excess. A static high-pressure area can impose a very persistent heat wave. Large desert zones and dry areas are more likely to get extreme heat because there is rarely any high cloud cover with very low humidity.
In the summer in warm climates, an area of high pressure with little or no rain or clouds, the air and ground easily heats to excess. A static high-pressure area can impose a very persistent heat wave. Large desert zones and dry areas are more likely to get extreme heat because there is rarely any high cloud cover with very low humidity.
Heat waves can also come from air originating over tropical seas penetrating far into the middle latitudes heating further overland, as often occurs in the eastern United States and southeastern Canada. The heat created by dense urbanization of large cities only exacerbates heat waves because of the weakness of nighttime cooling.
Heat can kill by pushing the human body beyond its limits. Under normal conditions, the body's internal thermostat produces perspiration that evaporates and cools the body. However, in extreme heat and high humidity, evaporation is slowed and the body must work extra hard to maintain a normal temperature. Elderly people, young children, and those who are sick or overweight are more likely to become victims of extreme heat. Because men sweat more than women do, they are more susceptible to heat illness because they become more quickly dehydrated.
The duration of excessive heat plays an important role in how people are affected by a heat wave. Studies have shown that a significant rise in heat-related illnesses happens when excessive heat lasts more than two days. Spending at least two hours per day in air conditioning significantly cuts down on the number of heat-related illnesses.
It is more important to limit strenuous exercise and reduce the amount of time spent outside when there is a heat wave. When indoors use air conditions and fans when possible. Always remember to keep the body hydrated.
Interesting topic, and very relevant for the summer season we are experiencing. It has hardly rained at all. People do really have to be careful during this extreme heat, especially those who work outside. Sometimes, I don't know how they do it. But you bring out a good point that spending just two hours in air conditioning can reduce the chances of getting a heat-related illness. Stay cool!
ReplyDelete