Excessive Heat Advisory is in effect, MET Office warns, and residents should expect ‘feels-like’ temperature of 106°F

Temperatures across Antigua and Barbuda will rise to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit this week, prompting the MET Office to issue an urgent Excessive Heat Advisory on the weekend.

In spite of the rains, the temperatures are expected to increase, and forecaster Dale Destin says the heat index – or feels-like temperature – will go as high as 41°C or 106°F.

He says the combination of relatively high temperatures, high humidity, and light winds will result in hot conditions; therefore, the threat of health problems is moderate, mainly for sensitive people. 

“While extreme heat can put everyone at risk for heat illnesses, health risks are greatest for the elderly; young children; people with chronic illnesses – such as breathing difficulties, heart conditions or psychiatric illnesses; people who work or who exercise in the heat; homeless people; and low-income earners,” Destin warns.

Persons may develop a rash, edema, fainting, cramps, exhaustion and stroke, he adds.  These heat illnesses can lead to long-term health problems, and heat stroke can lead to death.

Persons exhibiting symptoms such as dizziness or fainting, nausea or vomiting, headache, rapid breathing and heartbeat, or extreme thirst should immediately move to a cool place and drink liquids; water is best, the forecaster says.

Destin is advising everyone to stay alert, take precautions, and remain cool and hydrated.