As the world faces increasing temperatures and more warm days ahead, Singapore has taken a proactive step to protect its citizens from the dangers of heat stress. The National Environment Agency (NEA) recently launched a national heat stress advisory, urging people to safeguard their heat health during prolonged outdoor activities.
This article explores the significance of the advisory, how it works, and the importance of being prepared for extreme weather events.
Understanding the National Heat Stress Advisory
The national heat stress advisory is an essential tool designed to guide individuals in protecting themselves against heat-related illnesses. It offers vital information on the level of heat stress, categorized as low, moderate, or high, which is available on the myENV app and weather.gov.sg. The three-tier system is color-coded to ensure easy comprehension – red for high, amber for moderate, and green for low heat stress.
How Heat Stress is Measured
The advisory’s heat stress levels are determined by the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) readings from the nearest WBGT stations to the user’s location. The WBGT considers not only air temperature but also factors in humidity, wind speed, and solar radiation to provide a comprehensive measure of how hot the human body feels. This helps in gauging the risk of heat stress effectively.
Who Should Take Extra Precautions?
Minister for Sustainability and the Environment, Grace Fu, emphasized that the advisory is targeted at the average person. However, individuals with elderly parents who have medical conditions or young children should exercise additional caution. When planning outdoor activities during warmer days, checking the heat stress information on the myENV app can be crucial for making informed decisions.
The Return of El Nino and Its Impact
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Singapore faces the potential return of El Nino, which is expected to bring warmer and drier weather. The Meteorological Service Singapore (MSS) warns that El Nino conditions may develop in the second half of 2023. This phenomenon was last observed in 2016, a year that marked record-breaking temperatures globally and in Singapore.
Recognizing Heat Stress Symptoms
Heat stress occurs when the body cannot effectively cool down through sweat evaporation. Watch out for symptoms such as headaches, nausea, dizziness, confusion, and heavy sweating. Even in the absence of a heatwave, these signs can indicate the onset of heat-related illnesses.
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Understanding the WBGT Formula
The WBGT formula includes the natural wet bulb temperature, which considers the humidity in the air. Higher humidity reduces sweat evaporation, making it harder for the body to cool down. WBGT levels above 33°C expose people to high heat stress, while readings from 31°C to below 33°C indicate moderate heat stress. Anything below 31°C is considered low heat stress.
Managing Heat Stress Throughout the Year
The frequency and duration of moderate or high heat stress vary depending on the month. Warmer months like April and May typically observe high heat stress for about half the days, lasting up to 1½ hours. In contrast, cooler months from November to February experience high heat stress only for a few days, lasting up to half an hour. The peak heat stress hours are usually between 11 am and 3 pm.
Factors Influencing Heat Stress
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Apart from environmental heat stress, other factors that influence heat levels include attire and physical activity. Changing attire and adjusting activity levels according to the heat stress advisory can help mitigate the risk of heat-related illnesses.
Vulnerable Groups
Certain individuals are more susceptible to heat stress, including those with pre-existing medical conditions, dehydration, and extremes of age (very young or elderly). Their ability to cope with heat stress is compromised, necessitating additional caution during hot weather.
Takeaway
With the national heat stress advisory, Singaporeans can be better prepared to face the challenges of rising temperatures and extreme weather events. By understanding the heat stress levels and taking appropriate precautions, individuals can protect themselves and their families from the adverse effects of excessive heat. Embracing the advisory’s guidelines and staying informed through the myENV app will foster a safer and healthier community amid a warming world.
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