The World Meteorological Organization, UN’s weather agency has warned that COVID-19 is capable of amplifying the risks of what was expected to be a record-breaking hot summer in the northern hemisphere. The organization, therefore, urged governments to make plans to keep people safe during heatwaves without spreading the novel coronavirus.
This is according to WMO spokeswoman, Clare Nullis Kapp during a virtual briefing in Geneva.
“COVID-19 amplifies the health risks of hot weather for many people, and it complicates the task of managing it. This year is expected to be “another record-breaking heat season in the northern hemisphere. We’re currently experiencing one of the hottest years on record” she said.
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The United Nations agency teamed up Tuesday with non-governmental organizations to call for stronger preparations to keep people safe in hot weather while keeping a lid on the pandemic.
The information series, which covers topics such as ventilation, vulnerable populations, and personal protection equipment, is being issued “to alert decision-makers to try to help them manage the double challenge of heat and COVID,” said Nullis Kapp.
In some places, what would typically be good advice during a heatwave — such as heading for air-conditioned indoor public spaces — runs counter to public health guidance due to the coronavirus crisis.
Recall that India is currently experiencing a widespread heatwave, with temperatures reaching 47.5 degrees Celsius (117.5 Fahrenheit) in the city of Churu in the northwestern Rajasthan state.
“India is experiencing a heatwave, and this is at the same time as India is relaxing the lockdown measures. Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and more intense because of climate change. This is putting increasing stress on human health and human health systems,” she added.
