Other than the “very cold” weather Orange alert, the Macau Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau (SMG) has also hoisted the Strong monsoon signal (Black Ball) to warn residents about the windy weather.
According to an SMG statement yesterday, as the wind over the bridges is expected to be strong and gusty, drivers are advised to pay attention to traffic safety. The statement also urged motorcyclists travelling between the peninsula and Taipa to use the motorcycle lane on Sai Van Bridge.
A statement on Saturday said that “it is expected to be very cold in Macau for the next couple of days. The minimum temperature will drop to 7 degrees Celsius or below. Since it will remain cloudy, rainy and windy for a few days, the cold will be more obvious. The public should take precautions against the cold weather. Especially the elderly, children and those with chronic illnesses are advised to put on more clothes to keep warm.”
Meanwhile, the Health Bureau (SSM) also issued a hypothermia warning yesterday, urging residents, the elderly and chronically ill in particular, to prevent hypothermia by bundling up, keeping their home warm but well ventilated, and eating high-calorie but easily digestible food.
The Health Bureau said that lack of adequate clothing or prolonged exposure to low environmental temperatures are the main causes of hypothermia, in particular when the temperature drops abruptly. According to the bureau, most hypothermia victims are men, particularly elderly males living alone. Other risk factors are chronic disease, trauma, infection, alcohol consumption, and medicine abuse.
The bureau underlined that hypothermia can lead to serious health complications such as inhibition in the nervous system, arrhythmia, renal insufficiency and, in severe cases, even death.
The SSM statement recommended the consumption of high calorie foods such as hot milk, hot soup, congee, pasta and rice during the cold spell, aside from drinking plenty of water.
In addition, the Labour Affairs Bureau (DSAL) also issued a statement yesterday to remind workers to stay warm, especially those who are working outdoors. The statement said that in the cold weather, workers should wear a sufficient amount of clothing, be aware of one’s physical condition, and avoid placing heaters near inflammable items.
The Social Welfare Bureau (IAS) said in a statement over the weekend that it has opened its cold weather shelter until the temperature gets warmer. For more information about the shelter, residents can contact 2827 0939 during office hours and 6399 1963 during other hours.
