Delhi Heat Wave – Delhi’s notorious heat wave turns into something more than just an uncomfortable situation when temperatures rise above 45°C (113°F). Dehydration and power outages are just two of the negative effects that the intense heat may have on your well-being, productivity, and attitude. However, you can stay safe and fight the heat if you take the proper precautions.
These useful and crucial pointers can help you weather Delhi’s harsh summer.
How to Survive the Delhi Heat Wave: Tips to Stay Cool and Safe
1. Do Outdoor Activities During Non-Peak Hours
Delhi Heat Wave – The sun is the strongest between 12 PM – 4 PM and, the longer you are outside during those times, the higher risk of getting heatstroke. If you do have to go outside, try to limit the time you are outside and try to stay in the shade.
2. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
It really depends on you. In extreme heat your body loses fluids very quickly. You need to make sure that you are drinking at least 3-4 Liters of water a day. Also, drink things that have natural electrolytes like lemon water, coconut water and ORS. Try to avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they will dehydrate you quicker.
Pro tip: Bring a reusable water bottle around with you and just keep taking mini sips throughout the day, even when you are not thirsty.
3. Dress for the Weather
Wear lightweight, loose fitting, lighter colored clothes, and try to wear clothing made from natural fabrics that are breathable like cotton or linen. A wide-brimmed hat is also helpful, as well as, wearing proper UV protective sunglasses, so you are blocking out the sunlight.
4. Make Your Home Heat-Resistant
Block sunlight with blackout curtains or aluminum foil on windows. Use ceiling or pedestal fans with a bowl of ice in front of them to cool the air. Unplug any electronic devices that you don’t need, they still emit heat while being on standby. If you do not have air-conditioning, spend time in malls, libraries or metro stations during the peak hours of heat.
5. Eat Light and Seasonal
Delhi Heat Wave – Daytime heavy meals make your body work to digest it and raise your internal temperature. Light, more frequent meals with summer fruits like watermelon, cucumber, mangoes and curd are ideal. Avoid consuming spicy or oily food during the daytime.
6. Do It Yourself Coolers & Hacks
Soak a towel in cold water, wring it out, and put it around your neck. When it warms, you wring it out and put it in a cooler of cold water and start over again next time. Keep a spray bottle filled with cold water for an occasional spritz. Put a wet bedsheet or khus mat on the window opening to allow the air coming in to get cooled.
7. Watch for At-Risk Groups
Children, the elderly, and pets are more likely to suffer from heat-related illnesses. Ensure that they are hydrated, properly shaded, and never left alone in a vehicle, backroom, or closed space.
8. Be Aware of the Warning Signs for Heat Stroke
If you or someone else experiences any of the following warning signs, get help immediately, move to a cooler location, and apply cold packs as needed:
– High body temperature
– Headache and nausea
– Dizziness or confusion
– Temperature skin (hot, dry or profused sweating)
9. Cool Off
Avoid strenuous exercise in the hottest times of the day. You can either shift your routine to early morning or late evening, or you can do yoga, stretching, and activities indoors.
10. Support Cooling at the Urban Level
Delhi Heat Wave – For the long-term, we need greener cities to deal with heat waves. Support or get involved in local tree-planting days, rooftop gardens, and encourage initiatives such as rainwater harvesting.
Final Thoughts
The heat is not a joke in Delhi—but using caution, care, and community support can help you stay safe and sane. Pass on or share this information with friends and family. Remember that surviving the heat doesn’t just mean getting through it—it means being smart about it.
Stay cool, Delhi.
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