Severe heat wave intensifies in Phuket, Bangkok, and multiple provinces
Rewritten Article:
Get ready for sweltering temperatures, as Phuket's heatwave cranks up to "very dangerous" levels on Wednesday, with Bangkok and 34 other provinces wilting in "dangerous" heat. the mercury's expected to climb even higher on Thursday.
That's the Word from senior health official Dr Amporn Benjaponpitak. She says folks in vulnerable groups, like seniors, those with health issues, and outdoor workers, need to steer clear of the sun.
According to Dr Amporn, a "heat index" at the "very dangerous" red level can trigger rashes, cramps, heat exhaustion, heatstroke, fainting, and—in extreme cases—death.
A heat index like this makes things feel as hot as 52 degrees Celsius, even when the thermometer's reading lower, says the Meteorological Department. These conditions persist through Thursday in Phuket.
Phuket's not alone either. Bangkok and 34 provinces—including Bueng Kan, Buri Ram, Chaiyaphum, Chanthaburi, Chon Buri, and many more—face "dangerous" or "orange" heat index levels on Wednesday and Thursday.
In the "dangerous" or "orange" zone, it feels like the temperature's between 42°C and 51.9°C, potentially leading to cramps, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke.
Now, what exactly is this heat index Dr Amporn's talking about? Well, it's the temperature people actually feel, factoring in both the actual temperature and relative humidity.
When it's time to battle the heat, Dr Thiti Sawangtham, deputy director-general of the department of health, offers some sage advice. Stay hydrated by drinking water consistently, avoid alcohol, limit sugary drinks, and dress for ventilation.
But what happens if you start to feel symptoms like red or hot skin, a fast pulse, headache, confusion, unstable consciousness, slow responses, speech problems, anxiety, or hallucinations? Time to head to the ER, according to Dr Thiti.
Remedy for heat-related illnesses involves quick cooling tactics—like applying cold water and ice cubes to key areas, lowering body temperature, and hospital-rushing, stat.
So, remember: Stay safe during Thailand’s heatwaves by hydrating regularly, avoiding blistering sun, and seeking shelter in cooler environments. Keep an eye out for heat alerts, and provide extra care for the vulnerable. After all, the best defensive strategy is knowledge and preparedness.
- The elderly, individuals with health issues, and outdoor workers in Phuket should be cautious as the heat index, which represents the temperature people actually feel, considering both the actual temperature and humidity, is at a "very dangerous" level and could lead to heat-related illnesses such as rashes, cramps, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke.
- According to Dr Amporn Benjaponpitak, seniors and those with health issues need to stay indoors and away from the sun, as the heat index in Phuket, Bangkok, and 34 other provinces is at "dangerous" levels, making it feel as hot as 52 degrees Celsius.
- Environmental-science experts explain that the heat index is crucial in predicting how hot people perceive it to be, and they advise taking precautions during heatwaves, such as staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol, limiting sugary drinks, and dressing for ventilation.
- In case of developing symptoms like red or hot skin, a fast pulse, headache, confusion, unstable consciousness, slow responses, speech problems, anxiety, or hallucinations, Dr Thiti advises seeking immediate medical attention and using quick cooling tactics like applying cold water and ice cubes, lowering body temperature, and rushing to the hospital.
