The UK and much of Europe are suffering through a record-breaking heat wave right now, with temperatures exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit in some areas. As you sweat through this intense heat, it’s important to keep yourself safe and hydrated. Here are nine tips on how to beat the heat wave!
Turn off devices
Many of our devices give off heat, so it’s important to turn them off when we’re not using them. This includes your computer, printer, and any other electronics. Not only will this help keep your home cooler, but it’ll also save you money on your energy bill.
Use nature to cool down
Spend time in nature to cool down during a heat wave. Head to the beach, take a dip in a lake, or sit under a tree in the park. Not only will you enjoy the fresh air, but you’ll also benefit from the natural shade and breezes.
Eat chilled foods
When it’s hot outside, the last thing you want is a piping hot meal. Instead, opt for lighter fare that won’t heat you up from the inside out. Think chilled soups, salads, and fruits. Bonus points if you can find foods that are naturally cooling, like cucumbers and watermelon.
Go ahead, drink water
Drinking water is one of the best things you can do to stay cool and hydrated during a heat wave. Not only does it help keep your body temperature down, but it also prevents dehydration, which can be dangerous. Just be sure to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, especially if you’re spending time outdoors in the heat.
Keep indoor plants around
Indoor plants not only look great, but they can actually help to keep your home cool. Plants release moisture into the air, which can help to lower the temperature in your home. Plus, they act as natural air purifiers, so you can feel good about keeping them around!
Sleep it off
Surviving a heat wave is to get some sleep. When it’s hot outside, our bodies have a harder time cooling down, which can make it difficult to fall asleep. But there are a few things you can do to make it easier. Try sleeping on your back so that your body can cool itself more efficiently, and use light sheets and covers. You might also want to turn on a fan or open a window for some extra air circulation.
Sweat it out
Accepting that you will sweat is the first step. A lot. And that’s OK! It’s your body’s natural way of cooling itself down. Just make sure you’re drinking plenty of water to replace what you’re sweating out. If you feel like your face, neck, or head are getting hot and sweaty, use a cold compress on those areas.
Stay away from danger zones
The sun is at its highest and most dangerous between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so try to stay out of the sun during those hours. If you must be outside, stay in the shade as much as possible, and make sure to wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
Wear loose, light-colored clothing (two sentences): Clothing that’s tight or made of dark colors will absorb more heat and make you feel even hotter.
To keep cool, try wearing clothes made of cotton or other natural fibers, which breathe well and allow your skin to breathe.
Avoid using the oven: Turning on your oven may seem like a good way to escape the heat, but it could actually end up making things worse. Heat rises, which means all that hot air might cause your home to get stuffy. Stick with fans instead: Fans are great for circulating cool air around your home.
Keep calm and carry on
Despite the extreme temperatures, there’s no need to panic. Here are some tips to help you stay cool and comfortable until the heat wave passes.
- Drink lots of fluids, especially water. Avoid alcohol and sugary drinks, which can actually make you feel more dehydrated.
- Stay in the shade or indoors as much as possible. If you have to be out in the sun, wear loose, light-colored clothing and a hat or sunglasses.
FAQ’s
When was the last heat wave in the UK?
The last heat wave in the UK was in 2018, when temperatures reached a record-breaking 33.3C (91.9F) in Cambridge. But now in 2022 the heat wave break all the previous records and the templature is 42C.
Why is UK having a heat wave?
The United Kingdom is currently experiencing a heatwave because of a large area of high pressure that has moved in from continental Europe. This has resulted in warm, dry and sunny conditions across the country.
Has the UK ever hit 40 degrees?
On July 25, 2019, the UK hit its highest temperature on record: 38.7 degrees Celsius (101.7 degrees Fahrenheit) in Cambridge. Now, in 2022, a heat wave has broken all previous records, and the temperature is 42C.
What causes the heat wave?
A heat wave is a prolonged period of hot weather, which is usually accompanied by high humidity.
What are the effects of heat waves?
Heat waves can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion, and in extreme cases, heat stroke. Symptoms of dehydration include feeling thirsty, having a dry mouth, urinating less frequently, and feeling tired.
When did Heat Waves come out?
A heat wave is a period of abnormally high temperatures, more than 1.5 degrees Celsius above the average temperature. The United Kingdom and Europe have been affected by several heat waves in recent years, with 2018 being one of the worst on record.