Varanasi reeled under intense heat on Saturday as the city recorded the hottest day of the season, with the mercury soaring to 45 degrees Celsius, 5.3 degrees above normal.
The blistering heat kept streets largely deserted in the afternoon, while residents relied on fans, coolers and air conditioners to get through the day. The Met department has attributed the rise to prevailing dry north-westerly winds and clear skies, and warned that heatwave-like conditions may persist.
Health Risks Escalate Amid Soaring Temperatures
With the mercury rising, health experts warned that summer triggers multiple illnesses and weakens immunity. Besides digestive and skin issues, the risk of seasonal flu and other infections remains high. Hospitals have started reporting more patients with heat-related ailments, adding to the health department's burden. To control the spread of disease, officials have urged the public to take precautions against the heat and begun sharing preventive guidelines.
Understanding Heat Stroke
Chief Medical Officer Dr Rajesh Prasad said heat stroke occurs when a lack of water and salt in the body disrupts blood circulation. The body can handle temperature changes to a point, but extreme, prolonged heat prevents it from adjusting to the environment, leading to heat stroke. This can damage the brain and kidneys, impair blood circulation, and cause burning eyes, heart problems, and muscular issues.
He said during the summer season, heat stroke, diarrhea, vomiting, jaundice, typhoid, viral fever, reddening of the eyes, and burning sensation in the skin are common. These harm the body, which can sometimes prove fatal. In public interest, people have been urged to guard against health problems caused by hot winds or 'loo' by following basic precautions.
Symptoms and Immediate Actions
CMO Dr Rajesh Prasad said anyone showing symptoms like prickly heat, cramps, body weakness, dizziness, severe headache, nausea, or fainting should immediately consult doctors at the nearest hospital or health centre.
Preventive Measures Advised
Deputy CMO Dr Amit Singh said that people should have enough water before leaving home and should keep having it at regular intervals to prevent dehydration. One should wear light, loose-fitting cotton clothes so that air reaches the body and sweat is absorbed, keeping the body cool.
Health authorities continue to monitor the situation and advise residents to stay indoors during peak heat hours, avoid strenuous activities, and keep hydrated to mitigate the effects of the ongoing heatwave.
