KARACHI: Mercury that rose to 44 plus degrees Celsius in Karachi on Sunday noon, with the absence of sea breeze and prolonged load shedding, made living difficult for the residents who were supposed to spend the day with family in peace.
Experts talking to media attributed the intense weather condition to low pressure in the Arabian Sea causing humidity and surge in the day as well as night temperatures.
“Since there is a minimum temperature difference, often below three-degree Celsius, during the day and night hours hence risk to get inflicted with heat wave has increased manifold,” said an environmentalist. The doctors have suggested that cautions need to be taken in such as avoiding sun exposure.
Water intake at frequent intervals is cited to be prerequisite to avoid dehydration a common health-related condition with severe implications, however, as many have to abstain therefore it is important for them to keep themselves restricted to cooler atmosphere.
Also, experts are of the view that people should use umbrella beside keeping their head covered with a wet towel or piece of cloth.
Wearing light colored clothes, preferably cotton is also highly recommended by the doctors who advise citizens to consume simple food and seasonal fruits that may not be necessarily expensive.
People are strictly advised to avoid rich and fried food items during suhoor and iftar time, otherwise too, with extra attention to ensure adequate water intake.
Experts have a special emphasis on light and nutritious food comprising curd, vegetable and fruits provide natural protection to the consumers, people, in general, were urged to curtail high intake of meat and oil.
Meanwhile, local authorities have also made special arrangements to provide the needed care to the citizens and for the purpose, each and every health care facility managed by Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) is on high alert with provision for heatstroke management units.
“These measures are part of our regular intervention adopted during summers so as to avert any untoward incident,” said a senior KMC official.
Professionals associated with KMC hospitals, health centers, and clinics were said to have undergone refresher programmes to handle possible cases of a heat wave.
“This time of year our efforts are paying off as cases are being efficiently handled right from the first level of care to tertiary levels,” the official concluded.