If you noticed a recent spike in temperature in different parts of the country, then you are not alone.

The Qatar Meteorology Department (QMD) announced that July 16 marked the start of a summer period that is set to see escalating heat and rising humidity. 

“Today marks the beginning of the ‘Al-Hana’a’ star, characterized by escalating heat and rising humidity levels,” the QMD tweeted.

اليوم هو أول أيام نجم #الهنعة تستمر فيه شدة الحر وتزداد نسب الرطوبة. #قطر #فلك pic.twitter.com/UaswhfzjdK

— أرصاد قطر (@qatarweather) July 16, 2023

It noted that temperatures would rise significantly and intensify the heat over the course of the next 12 days.

It added that this period would see a reduction in drought-like conditions and an increase in humidity. It will be particularly noticeable along the coastline.  

These changes in weather patterns will lead to the formation of light fog and a general decrease in wind activity, resulting in calmer winds.

صباح الخير
طقس حار مع غبار خفيف على بعض المناطق نهاراً ،مع رياح شمالية غربية - شمالية شرقية من خفيفة إلى معتدلة السرعة و هبات قوية السرعة. #قطر
Good morning
Hot weather with slight dust at some areas daytime ,with wind Northwesterly - Northeasterly from light to moderate wind… pic.twitter.com/8or1a3shHr

— أرصاد قطر (@qatarweather) July 17, 2023

Dr Aisha Ali Al Sada, a medical resident at the Emergency Department of Hamad Medical Corporation, shared some tips about identifying and dealing with heat stroke. She also spoke about how to prevent them.

High body temperature, sweating, increased heart rate, loss of consciousness, reddening of skin, severe thirst, headaches, dizziness and nausea and severe fatigue are some of the symptoms of heat stroke, said Dr Aisha.

أعراض الإصابة بضربة الشمس:
Symptoms of heat stroke: pic.twitter.com/uoO05a3wRz

— مؤسسة حمد الطبية (@HMC_Qatar) July 16, 2023

One of the best ways to prevent heatstroke is to keep oneself hydrated by drinking lots of water and fluids.

Wearing loose, comfortable and light colour clothes and avoiding exposure to the sun from 11.00 am to 3.00 pm are some other ways to prevent it. Children, the elderly and patients with chronic diseases should especially be aware of this.

Cold-water showers or cold pads can help reduce body temperature. One should stop exhausting activity when tired. 

In case of heat stroke, the person should immediately be transferred to a cool area. The person should be laid on his or her back, with the head and shoulders raised. One should then give the victim cold water or an iced drink and put cold pads on them.

If the condition does not improve after 30 minutes or if the body temperature is higher than 40 degrees, call 999 for an ambulance immediately.

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