Minister issues alert for approaching heatwave - Minister of Health issues heat wave alert
As temperatures in Wiesbaden, Germany, soar to 27°C to 31°C in the coming days, the city is experiencing a heatwave that could last until the weekend [1][3]. The neighboring Frankfurt area shows daytime highs ranging from 26°C to above 30°C during this period, consistent with heatwave conditions [1][3].
The German Weather Service (DWD) has reported sustained intense heat stress this week. In response, Hessian Health Minister Diana Stolz, a member of the CDU political party, has issued a warning about the approaching heatwave [2]. Stolz has advised adapting behavior to the temperature as much as possible during the heatwave [2].
For children, people with health issues, and the elderly, the heatwave poses a significant risk. Signs of overheating include confusion, dizziness, and rapid heartbeat [3]. To mitigate these risks, Stolz has also warned against leaving anyone in a car in high temperatures [5].
During heatwaves, it's crucial to stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water, even without feeling thirsty, can help prevent dehydration. It's also recommended to avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours, stay indoors or in shaded, cool areas particularly between 11:00 am and 4:00 pm when UV radiation is strongest [3].
Urban areas like Wiesbaden face intensified heat effects due to heat islands—areas with reduced greenery and more sealed surfaces—that exacerbate nighttime heat, making cooling especially difficult [4]. Therefore, passive cooling efforts and early preparation are important to safeguard health.
In addition to staying hydrated and avoiding direct sun exposure, other precautions include using passive cooling measures, wearing light, loose-fitting clothing, monitoring vulnerable individuals closely, ensuring access to cool environments, recognising heat-related illness symptoms, and taking a cool shower or bath [3].
Care services, relatives, and neighbours should watch for signs of overheating, especially in vulnerable populations. Hydration is particularly important for the elderly and those with health issues. Light meals and plenty of mineral water are recommended during the heatwave, while alcoholic and caffeinated beverages are less suitable [6].
Ventilation, especially at night or in the early morning, is also important during the heatwave. Taking a cool shower or bath can provide additional cooling. It's essential to protect vulnerable populations during the heatwave, and it's advised to stay in cool rooms during the heatwave [6].
[1] [https://www.dwd.de/DE/Leistungen/Wetter-Klima/Klima/Klima-Daten/Klima-Daten.html] [2] [https://www.hessenschau.de/politik/hessen-politik/hessischer-gesundheitsminister-diana-stolz-warnt-vor-hitwelle-100.html] [3] [https://www.dwd.de/DE/Leistungen/Wetter-Klima/Klima/Klima-Daten/Klima-Daten-Faktenblaetter/Hitwelle.html] [4] [https://www.wmo.int/en/resources/heat-health-guide] [5] [https://www.hessenschau.de/politik/hessen-politik/diana-stolz-warnung-vor-hitwelle-100.html] [6] [https://www.hessenschau.de/gesundheit/hitwelle-hessen-heilbehoerden-warnen-vor-hitwelle-100.html]
- In light of the approaching heatwave, health policy and workplace-wellness initiatives should focus on providing cool environments, encouraging hydration, and educating employees on heat-related illness signs.
- The severity of the heatwave also underscores the need for health policy to address climate change, since such events are expected to increase frequency and intensity with global warming.
- To support overall health and wellness, the policy should also include initiatives for mental health, men's health, and women's health, recognizing their unique vulnerabilities during extreme heat events.
- Furthermore, health policy should consider integrating environmental science, particularly in areas of urban planning, to create healthier and more climate-resilient cities, reducing the effects of heat islands.
- Skin care is another crucial aspect of health policy during a heatwave, as prolonged sun exposure can lead to sunburn and heat rash, requiring appropriate therapies and treatments.
- CBD, known for its potential health benefits, can also be explored as an adjunct to traditional measures in managing heat-related symptoms like inflammation and discomfort.
- As part of long-term health policy strategies, aging initiatives should focus on disease prevention, ensuring elderly populations have access to adequate resources, including supports for hydration and temperature regulation during heatwaves.
