Extreme heat continues in Slovakia on Monday as well. Warnings of the first, second and third degree are valid for the whole country. In most locations, the temperature can exceed 38 degrees Celsius. Occasional showers or thunderstorms are expected, even intensive ones. Meteorologists warn that high temperatures pose a danger to human health. There is also the risk of fires starting and spreading. Heat can cause complications in transport, especially rail. 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.
- Several levels of warnings against extreme heat apply throughout Slovakia.
- Temperatures above thirty-eight degrees Celsius threaten people’s health and increase mortality.
- Risk groups include children, seniors, pregnant women and the chronically ill.
- The authorities advise to drink enough fluids, limit the load, protect the skin and eyesight.
- Drought and heat increase fire risk and slow down train traffic.
High temperatures can cause overheating of the body and various health complications. These are, for example, 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 strict adherence to a regular drinking regime, even if thirst does not appear. According to him, physical activity should also be limited, stay out of direct sunlight and stay outside to a minimum. 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 emphasized that people should pay extra attention to children, seniors and people with health problems in this weather. 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 areas or places where it can spread.
The heat can also complicate transportation. The Railways of the Slovak Republic announced that in the areas most affected by high temperatures, they limit the speed of trains as a precaution. Passengers must expect delays. The reason for the measure is the effect of heat on the rails.
