Extreme heat will hit Slovakia over the weekend (June 27-28). The maximum temperature can sometimes exceed 40 degrees Celsius. Meteorologists have therefore issued warnings of the first, second and third degree. The highest applies in the south and west of the country. Such weather poses a danger to human health.
There is also a risk of developing a the spread of fires, the heat can cause complications in transport, especially railways. Local problems with the supply of drinking water and excessive use of cooling systems can also cause a burden on the energy and technical infrastructure.
High temperatures can cause overheating of the body and various health complications. It is, for example, about nausea, malaise, headaches or vomiting. An extreme case is serious collapse states. Under certain conditions, these can lead to possible deaths. Risk groups of the population include children, the elderly, pregnant women and chronically ill people. If people experience severe weakness, dizziness, nausea or collapse, they should seek help.
The Public Health Office of the Slovak Republic issued several recommendations in this regard. It appeals to consistent compliance with a regular drinking regimen, even if thirst does not appear. According to him, it is necessary limit physical activity, stay out of direct sunlight and minimize time outside. Paramedics, on the other hand, remind us of the importance of a lighter diet, proper clothing, including head coverings and sunglasses, as well as the use of protective creams during the heat.
Civil protection stressed that people should in this weather pay extra attention to children, seniors and people with health problems. She appealed to them not to forget the animals as well and to provide them with enough fresh water and create the possibility of shelter in the shade. “Never leave children or animals in parked vehicles, even for a short time,” she pointed out.
High temperatures and drought significantly increase the risk of fires. Firefighters in several areas have declared a time of increased danger of fire. Then everyone should follow the principles of fire safety. In particular, it is forbidden to use an open flame, to burn grass, vegetation, bushes and trees or to start a fire in premises or places where it can spread.
The heat can also complicate transportation. The Railways of the Slovak Republic announced that they are limiting the speed of trains as a precaution in the areas most affected by high temperatures. Passengers must expect delays. The reason for the measure is the effect of heat on the rails.
