At least 15 people died from heatstroke in 14 days till Sunday (May 05, 2024).The Health Emergency Operation Center and Control Room (HEOC & CR) of Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) confirmed the deaths. The DGHS reported the fatalities from the information it received at its control room till Sunday.Besides, one person died and three people suffered injuries due to heatstroke across the country in the past 24 hours till Monday morning. ‘Very severe heat wave’ grips 7 districts, says BMDThe DGHS started recording heatstroke related deaths from April 22.A mild to very severe heat wave swept through the country for about a month staring from first week of April. Later the temperature started to fall across the country after rains in the first week of the current month.The heat wave also forced the government to shut the primary and secondary schools, colleges and madrashas till May 2.Strategies for Cooling Your Roof During Intense Summer Heat

With temperatures reaching unbearable levels, there is a call from public health experts and meteorologists to officially declare the heatwave a disaster and to establish a comprehensive action plan to address its impacts. Against this backdrop, the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief says it is considering the ongoing heatwave in Bangladesh as a “disaster”. During the current summer season, the country has been experiencing a prolonged period of heat, causing widespread disruption to daily life. Instances of heatstroke have led to fatalities, numerous hospital admissions, and significant damage to crops and fruit trees. In response to inquiries about whether heatwaves should be declared disaster like droughts, State Minister for Disaster Management and Relief Md. Mohibbur Rahman emphasized, “I certainly would call this extreme heatwave a disaster.” Dhaka’s air ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’ this morning The ministry is actively gathering data on the severity of the heat, which has caused various forms of damage, including deaths from heatstroke, illness, and agricultural losses. This information will guide their decision on whether to extend financial and other forms of assistance to those affected, the state minister said. Secretary Md. Kamrul Hasan of the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief stated that while the government last declared lightning a disaster in 2016, the suggestion to categorize heatwaves similarly is under consideration. The ministry is collecting data on the highest temperatures and their impacts to determine the next steps. Public health expert and former director of Disease Control at Directorate General of Health Services, Professor Dr. Be-Nazir Ahmed, warned that the current extreme temperatures pose a serious health risk, potentially leading to outbreaks of diseases like cholera. Dr. Ahmed advocated for strategic planning to prevent heatwave-related deaths and suggested that such a strategy should aim to make the heat more tolerable, including increasing vegetation and maintaining water bodies as cooling measures. Rain expected in Chattogram and Sylhet within 24 hours Dr. Md. Zillur Rahman, Dean of the Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences at Dhaka University, stressed that preparation is crucial as average temperatures have risen by one degree Celsius from 2011 to 2020. He noted that the country is experiencing hotter summers and emphasized the need for strategies to adapt to these increasing temperatures. According to the Meteorological Department, a heatwave is categorized based on temperature ranges, with the highest category being "severe" when temperatures exceed 42 degrees Celsius. On April 20, 2024, the country recorded its highest temperature of the season at 42.6 degrees Celsius in Jashore, indicating the severity of the current heatwave. Schools remained closed due to the extreme heat following the Eid holiday break. The ministry and experts are considering implementing national strategies to mitigate the effects of heatwaves, emphasizing the need for a proactive approach to protect public health and ensure economic stability in the face of increasing temperatures. Read more: Heatwave forces closure of schools until Thursday

Summer vacation presents a wonderful opportunity to explore new destinations. However, during the warmer months, soaring temperatures necessitate careful planning to ensure health safety, especially as many people travel for work, medical treatment, or personal reasons. Here are some effective tips for traveling safely during summer heat waves. Health Risks During Extreme Heat Waves Heat waves bring a range of health risks, from mild heat cramps and exhaustion to severe, potentially life-threatening heatstroke. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to dehydration and heat exhaustion, particularly affecting vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, pregnant women, and those with pre-existing medical conditions. Recognizing the signs of heat-related illnesses is crucial. Symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, excessive sweating, weakness, nausea, and a rapid heartbeat. If you or someone you are traveling with experiences these symptoms, it's important to seek shade, rest, and rehydrate immediately. In severe cases, medical attention should be sought promptly. Read more: Summer Tips for School-going Children How to Stay Safe While Traveling During the Scorching Heat of Summer Planning Ahead Before embarking on your summer travels, careful planning is necessary. Check the weather forecast for your destination and schedule activities during the cooler parts of the day, typically early mornings and evenings. Be aware of any heat advisories or warnings and adjust your plans accordingly. Consider whether your accommodation has air conditioning, which can be crucial during heat waves. Dress Appropriately Opt for lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Light colors, such as white or pastels, reflect sunlight and help keep you cool. Moisture-wicking garments can also reduce sweat and discomfort. Read more: Summer Drinks: Refreshing Homemade Sherbets to Beat the Heat Stay Hydrated Water is vital in the heat. To combat dehydration, a common risk during hot weather, drink plenty of fluids. Carry a refillable water bottle and drink regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid sugary or caffeinated beverages, as they can lead to further dehydration.

The scorching heat of summer can be relentless, making it essential to find ways to stay cool and hydrated. While the allure of roadside summer drinks is undeniable, they often come with health risks due to questionable ingredients and hygiene standards. Fortunately, there is a safer and more delicious alternative – homemade sherbets. Let's explore 10 revitalising sherbet recipes to try this summer to fight heat related illnesses. 10 Homemade Sherbet Recipes to Beat Dehydration This Summer Raw Mango Sherbet Aam Panna, or raw mango sherbet, is a quintessential summer drink in Bangladesh for combating the sweltering heat packed with both flavour and health benefits. Made from raw mangoes, it presents a tantalising blend of tartness and sweetness. This refreshing beverage is rich in vitamins A and C, essential for maintaining hydration and boosting immunity.  To make Aam Panna, simply blend raw boiled, peeled mangoes with mint leaves, roasted cumin powder, black salt, sugar, and water until smooth. To impart a smoky nuance, consider roasting the mangoes beforehand. Serve chilled over ice for a revitalising treat that not only quenches thirst but also replenishes electrolytes and provides a burst of tropical goodness. Read more: How to Protect Outdoor Workers from Heat Stroke Tamarind Sherbet Tamarind sherbet offers a tangy and refreshing escape from the scorching summer heat. Rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and potassium it offers a sweet-tart punch. It aids in replenishing electrolytes lost during sweating, thus combating dehydration.  To prepare this invigorating drink, combine tamarind pulp with water, sugar or honey, and a dash of salt. Allow the mixture to steep with a cinnamon stick, then strain and chill before serving over ice. Indulge in the zesty flavour and hydrating benefits of tamarind sherbet to stay cool and refreshed all summer long. Rose Petal Sherbet Rose petal sherbet embodies a fragrant and floral essence, offering a delightful respite from summer's heat. While lower in electrolytes than some options, it can provide some hydration and is a lovely source of antioxidants. Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, it supports hydration and boosts immunity.  Read more: Beat Dehydration with These Summer Vegetables To concoct this rejuvenating elixir, steep fresh rose petals in water, then strain and mix with sugar or honey and a splash of lemon juice. Serve chilled over ice for a cooling sensation that not only tantalises the taste buds but also replenishes vital fluids lost through perspiration. Sip on rose petal sherbet to invigorate your senses and combat dehydration effortlessly. Bael Sherbet Bael sherbet, a summer delight, boasts a unique flavour and impressive health benefits. Made with the pulp of the wood apple (bael), it offers a sweet-tart taste with a hint of citrus. This golden drink is a powerhouse of Vitamin C, supporting immunity and fighting inflammation.  But bael truly shines in its role against dehydration.  The pulp is rich in fibre and natural electrolytes, helping your body retain fluids and recover from sweat loss.  To create this revitalising drink, simply mash the pulp of a ripe bael with water, strain, and add sugar or honey to taste.  A pinch of salt and a squeeze of lemon juice complete this refreshing and rehydrating summer beverage.  Read more: How to Protect Your Skin and Hair from Sun Damage Watermelon Sherbet Cool off with watermelon sherbet, a naturally hydrating summer treat. Made with blended watermelon, this refreshing pink drink is packed with water, making it a delicious weapon against dehydration.  Watermelon boasts vitamins A, B6, and C, as well as potassium and lycopene. It supports immunity and healthy vision.  The recipe is simple: freeze seedless watermelon cubes, then blend them smooth with a touch of lime juice or honey for extra zing. Enjoy this refreshing sherbet for a hydrating and nutritious summer. 

The scorching heat waves can pose serious health risks, especially for people who stay outdoors for long hours due to occupation. During hot weather situations in summer, people working under the sun may suffer from heat-related illnesses like dehydration, heatstroke, etc. Let’s explore some effective tips to safeguard outdoor workers from the debilitating effects of heat waves. What is Heatstroke? Heat stroke is a severe heat-related illness characterised by a body temperature of 104°F (40°C) or higher. It arises when your body overheats and the body's internal temperature regulation system fails, typically due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures or strenuous physical activity and dehydration. It is most prevalent during the summer season.  Immediate medical attention is necessary for heatstroke. If left untreated, it can swiftly lead to damage to vital organs such as the brain, heart, kidneys, and muscles. Delaying treatment exacerbates the damage, heightening the risk of severe complications or even death. Read more: Summer Heatwave: Here’s How to Keep Children Safe Symptoms of Heat Stroke The most common symptoms of heatstroke include: - High body temperature (above 104°F or 40°C)- Altered mental state, such as confusion or disorientation- Nausea and vomiting- Flushed or red skin- Rapid breathing- Rapid heartbeat. Read more: Heat Stroke Prevention: Best foods, drinks to avoid heat exhaustion