Amidst clear skies, continuously high temperatures are again set to be observed across Macau over the next few days, with the Meteorological Bureau (SMG) yesterday issuing its Yellow hot weather alert.
Temperatures are expected to go up to 33 degrees Celsius or higher, the bureau said, with members of the public reminded to be wary of heatstroke.
With the issuance of the Yellow hot weather alert, the government’s heat shelter is open once again, as noted on the Social Welfare Bureau (IAS) website yesterday, adding that it opens its doors free of charge when a Yellow or Orange hot weather alert is up.
The Health Bureau (SSM) meanwhile reminded the public that extreme heat combined with high humidity, and poor ventilation can affect the body’s natural ability to effectively cool itself, with heat-related illnesses possibly setting in.
Among these are heat syncope, where dilated blood vessels reduce blood flow to the brain and other parts of the body, causing fainting, weak pulse, and moist/cool skin. Sweat-driven salt loss meanwhile leads to heat cramps and muscle spasms.
Continued fluid and salt loss causes heat exhaustion, which includes symptoms like extreme thirst, fatigue, limb weakness, nausea, headache, dizziness, temporary clouding of consciousness, cool and clammy skin, pale complexion, and a rapid yet weak pulse, according to the statement.
The statement added that heatstroke, upon prolonged exposure to high temperatures, affects the central nervous system, causing the body to lose its temperature-regulating capability. The statement said that sweating either fails or stops; body temperatures can hit 41°C and, if victims are unable to cool down and receive emergency care, it leads to irreversible brain damage or death.
Among the bureau’s reminders are avoiding outdoor activities in sweltering heat; steering clear of strenuous activities in hot and humid environments or ensuring good ventilation in these types of areas; replenishing fluids lost through sweating by drinking electrolyte-containing beverages rather than caffeinated drinks or alcoholic beverages.
Other reminders included using sun protection gear or sun safe attire while engaging in outdoor activities and not staying in cars parked outdoors for long periods. Lastly, the statement emphasised that the obese, elderly, young children, pregnant and postpartum women, or those suffering from illnesses “should pay special attention to keeping their environment well-ventilated and at a suitable temperature, avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight”.
Anyone feeling unwell is remind to seek immediate medical attention, the statement pointed out, and, in severe cases, one should call 999 to be taken by ambulance to hospital.
Meanwhile, as noted in a Post article yesterday, a low-pressure system located east of the Philippines may develop into a tropical cyclone, being expected to move towards the northern South China Sea in the next few days. It might intensify into a typhoon. Consequently, Macau may experience significantly stronger winds, heavy showers, and occasional thunderstorms over the weekend.
At 1 a.m. today, the mercury stood at 28°C, with relative humidity at 91 percent, according to the local observatory, which warned that the apparent temperature “feels hot”.
Pedestrians queue for a cold treat at LemonCello Gelato on Rua do Monte (大炮台街). - Photo: Rui Pastorin
