MET Office alerts public to ill effects of current heat wave, with ‘feels-like’ temperature set to rise to 106° Fahrenheit

Forecasters are advising residents to take proper precautions and protect themselves, as the country will be under an excessive heat advisory this week. 

The weather phenomenon is expected to run from April 23 to April 30, and residents were already complaining, last Sunday, how hot and humid the weather is.

The advisory was issued by the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services on Saturday evening, April 22.  An excessive heat advisory is issued within 12 hours of the onset of such hot conditions.

Meteorologist Dale Destin says the heat index – or feels-like temperature – will rise to 41°C or 106°F.

He says the combination of relatively high temperatures, high humidity, and light winds will result in hot conditions that are a threat to health.  Accordingly, moderate health issues may arise for mainly sensitive people. 

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

Illnesses, including heat rash, edema, fainting, cramps, exhaustion and stroke, are possible during this time, Destin adds, warning that they can lead to long-term health problems and heat stroke can lead to death.