Heat waves

A heat wave is when very high temperatures persist in a certain area for several consecutive days, with high levels of humidity, strong solar radiation and no ventilation. 

 

Climate change is making heat waves more frequent, intense and longer lasting, which can pose a risk to health. 

 

To monitor and communicate the possible effects of heat waves, the Ministry of Health issues daily bulletins for 27 cities, between May and September, with forecasts at 24, 48 and 72 hours.  

Risk Levels

Weather conditions are rated according to four categories, from the least to the most risky to health. 

Level 0

Weather conditions that pose no health dangers and risks

Level 1
Pre-alert: conditions that may precede a heat wave
Level 2
High temperatures and weather conditions may have negative effects on health, especially in susceptible population
Level 3
Heat wave: very high temperatures for more than three consecutive days, associated with high humidity levels and lack of ventilation

How to Deal with the Heat

  • Avoid exposure to direct sunlight during the hottest time of day (between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.), when on foot or in a car without air conditioning
  • Avoid particularly busy areas, go to public spaces like parks and gardens during the coolest hours of the day, avoiding crowded places
  • Wear light-coloured clothing made of natural fibres (e.g. cotton and linen) and wear a hat and sunglasses when exposed to the sun
  • Protect your skin from sunburn with high factor sunscreen
  • Do not leave vulnerable / non-independent people, children, animals or elderly people in a car parked in the sun, even for a short period of time
  • Spend the hottest hours of the day in the coolest room of your house or in a room with air conditioning, refresh yourself frequently with lukewarm or cool water to lower your body temperature
  • Ventilate rooms during the coolest hours and close the windows during the hottest hours
  • Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and iced drinks
  • Eat light meals, avoiding processed and spicy foods. Eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables
  • If you’re taking medication, do not stop your treatment without consulting your doctor and store away from heat and direct sunlight
  • If you are sensitive to heat, avoid moving quickly from a horizontal to a vertical position
  • Offer assistance to more vulnerable people (e.g. elderly people who live alone) and report any situations that require assistance

Workplace heat emergency

As temperatures rise, so do workplace health risks. Prevention is a duty. Taking action is a shared responsibility.