PESHAWAR: The Met Office Saturday predicted that heatwave would persist in most parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa from May 15 to May 21 and temperature could rise up to 45 to 48C at noon in plain areas, however, gusty winds were expected in the afternoon from May 14 to May 17 that would bring the mercury down at night.
Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has informed district administrations and line departments that medical emergencies and water stress could increase in the coming days due to extreme weather conditions.
It further said that rivers’ water levels could rise during the period due to the melting of glaciers therefore, the population living on the banks of the rivers should be relocated to avert any untoward incident.
PDMA advised farmers to keep arrangements of water supply for their crops, cattle and other domestic animals while the general public was advised to adopt all precautionary measures to avoid direct exposure to sunlight.
It further advised motorists to check engine water, coolant and air pressure in tyres while travelling in daylight.
The Authority asked Health department, medical services, Paramedics and RESCUE 1122 to remain high alert and set up heat store centres to meet with any emergency.
It said that the emergency operation centres of the authority were fully operational round the clock and people could contact on helpline 1700 in case of any emergency.
People should stay indoors to avoid heat-borne illnesses
PESHAWAR: Health experts on Saturday advised the people to stay indoors and be careful for the symptoms of heat-related illnesses and take extra precautions to keep their families and communities safe.
“Heat-related illnesses can take many forms ranging from a mild case of heat related exhaustion to a more serious and life-threatening case of heat stroke”, Deputy Director NICH Dr Liaquat Ali said while talking to a private news channel.
“As several parts of the country are in grip of an intense heat wave so there could be possibility that more people may be affected and be in need of medical help”, he warned.
Extreme heat can affect anybody especially those most at risk are older people including young children and people with medical condition, he said, adding, heat stroke is the common heat-related ailment, which could result in death.
Dr Liaquat said that heat-related illnesses can range from mild conditions such as a rash or cramps to very serious conditions such as heatstroke, which can be dangerous.
He further mentioned that summer heat, combined with other factors like intake of contaminated food and water, can lead to gastroenteritis cases seen in all age groups.