UAE heatwave: Temperatures soar over 51ºC; how to avoid sunstroke, summer illnesses

As the scorching summer approaches in the UAE with temperatures hitting over 51ºC, residents are urged to take serious precautions to prioritise their health and safety.

Summer in the UAE isn't just uncomfortable — it can be dangerous. Prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures can lead to serious health conditions, especially for vulnerable groups like the elderly, children, pregnant women, and those with chronic illnesses.

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With the intense heat and high humidity levels, residents face increased risks of dehydration, heatstroke, skin irritation, and respiratory issues. However, by following expert advice and adopting a few simple precautions, you can enjoy a safer and healthier summer.

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Here’s everything you need to know to stay safe and healthy this summer:

Symptoms of heat-related issues

As temperatures rise, so does the risk of heat-related health issues. Recognising the early symptoms can make a critical difference in preventing serious complications.

Stay alert and act quickly if you or someone around you shows any of the following signs:

• Dehydration, excessive sweating, severe thirst

• Dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea

• Blisters or rash, nosebleeds, muscle cramps

• Rapid heartbeat and breathing

Severe symptoms require immediate care. If you or a family member experiences these, don’t hesitate—seek medical help immediately.

Minimise heat-related risks by:

• Wearing breathable clothing to stay cool and minimise sweat.

• Avoiding peak daytime heat to avoid fatigue and heat stroke.

• Hydrating by drinking a lot of refreshing fluids like anise, mint, hibiscus, and green tea.

• Using sunscreen to protect your skin.

• Eating fruits and vegetables to boost your immunity to combat summer illnesses.

• Staying active with 150 minutes of exercise and choose optimal time during favourable weather conditions only

Understanding heatwaves

What is a heatwave?

The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHap) previously clarified what heatwaves are. The authority said in a previous social media post that "heat waves are a natural meteorological phenomenon arising from the trapping of warm air in the atmosphere".

A mere rise in temperature does not mean that a heatwave has occurred. Heat waves occur when temperatures exceed their normal average for several consecutive days.

Sometimes, higher levels of humidity can make the weather feel warmer than it is.

The groups of people that are the most vulnerable to such conditions are: pregnant women, infants, children, the elderly, and outdoor workers.

Preventive measures during heatwaves

Preparation is key to staying safe:

• Monitor the weather forecast and stay informed.

• Use fans and air conditioners.

• Keep a home first aid kit with oral hydration salts, thermometer, cooling clothes, water bottles, and a fan or battery-operated sprayer.

• Keep a guidebook on recognising and treating heat stress symptoms. Record contact information for the nearest health centre or ambulance service.

• Block sunlight during peak hours by using curtains or shades, and open windows at night for ventilation as well as to cool down the house.

• Stay out of the sun, wear sunscreen and moisturiser, and use a hat or umbrella.

• Wear lightweight, light-coloured and loose-fitting clothing.

• Carry a small, damp cloth for your neck, and drink water often.

Special tips for pregnant women

Pregnant women are more susceptible to heat waves. Here’s how to stay safe:

• Wear light, sweat-absorbing clothes.

• Always carry a cold water bottle to stay hydrated.

• Avoid exercising during the day and consult a doctor for suitable activities.

• Use sunscreen to prevent burns and rashes.

• Minimise sun exposure during the day to avoid fatigue and thirst.

• Eat water-rich fruits and vegetables.

• Get eight hours of sleep at night in a cool room.

How to avoid heat stroke?

The risk of heatstroke increases during extreme temperatures, but it can be avoided by taking the following steps:

• Wear light cotton clothes to reduce sweating.

• Avoid the heat during peak hours.

• Apply sunscreen when going outside.

• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

• Eat water-rich fruits and vegetables like watermelon and cucumber.

• Exercise during the cooler times of the day only.

What to do if you get a sun stroke?

If symptoms of a sunstroke appear, immediate action is essential:

• Sit in a cool, shaded, and well-ventilated area.

• Use curtains to provide more shade.

• Use fans or AC to cool the space.

• Apply wet cloths to the head, neck, underarms, and thighs.

• Loosen unnecessary clothing to help ventilate the body.

• Call an ambulance if the condition appears severe or worsens.

What to do during dust storm?

Dust storms are common in the UAE during the summer season, and may pose health risks to residents who are consistently exposed to them. Dust carries pollutants and irritants that can be harmful.

During dusty days, residents are urged to take these necessary steps to protect themselves against the harmful effects of dust:

• Limit unnecessary outings

  Limit outdoor activities and outings as much as possible, as dust storms may cause several health issues and adversely affect the respiratory system.

• Wear a mask

  Residents are advised to wear a mask when going outside; the best option is the N95 mask. Health experts previously told Khaleej Times that dust storms might trigger allergies like itchy throat, irritable eyes, throat and skin irritation, coughing or sneezing.

• Wear sunglasses

  It is important to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays during the summer, especially for residents working outdoors, as they are at higher risk of UV-related damage. UV exposure can significantly contribute to eye conditions such as cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

• Follow medication schedule

  Since the dusty conditions can aggravate one's current condition, it is important to adhere to your prescribed medication schedule.

• Carry an emergency inhaler

  Dust can be especially harmful to the following groups:

  *Asthma patients

  *The elderly

  *Children

  *Individuals with autoimmune diseases

  *Individuals with respiratory diseases

It is strongly advised to carry an emergency inhaler especially when going outside.

• Drink water regularly

  It is important to stay hydrated to minimise risks of dehydration. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, dizziness, and even heatstroke.

• Check weather conditions

  Residents are advised to regularly check the weather updates so they are prepared. It is important to know which essentials to bring and which activities to avoid, depending on weather conditions.

Elizabeth Gonzales

elizabeth@khaleejtimes.com

Elizabeth Gonzales is a Digital Journalist who loves writing about the expat life — and ways to make the most of it. When she's not looking for new hacks to share with readers, you may find her giving them a real laugh at one of her stand-up comic events.