heat wave
Summer Safety Tips for Elderly to Avoid Heat-related Illnesses
Global warming is making summers hotter and more humid. During the summer season, the oppressive heat can take a toll on anyone, particularly the senior citizens. Due to the sweltering heat of the sun, the temperature becomes unbearable, which is increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of the elderly people.
Common Summer Heat-related Illnesses that Can Affect Senior Citizens
As people age, their bodies become less able to regulate their temperature. Elderly people especially face challenges in coping with the extreme temperatures, and their vulnerability to heat-related issues is a cause for concern.
Due to the heat and increased sun exposure, heat stroke, dehydration, and heat exhaustion are common concerns. Seniors may also experience exacerbation of chronic conditions, skin problems, and vitamin D deficiency.
Read more: Summer Heatwave: Here’s How to Keep Children Safe
10 Tips for Senior Citizens to Stay Healthy in Summer
These summer safety tips for the elderly aim to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Stay Hydrated
Sometimes elderly people forget to drink enough water. They should be encouraged to drink lots of fluids, particularly water, throughout the day. When it's hot, our bodies lose more water through sweat, making dehydration a real risk. By drinking plenty of fluids, senior citizens can keep their bodies hydrated and maintain their overall health.
Water is the best choice because it does not have any added sugar or calories. To make it easier, a water bottle can be stored nearby. They can also use mobile apps that will remind them from time to time to take a sip. Dehydration symptoms include feeling tired, dizzy, or having dry mouth, so it is essential to stay hydrated to prevent these issues and feel better during the summer heat.
Read more: Summer 2023: Ceiling Fan Buyer's Guide with Price Range in Bangladesh
Summer 2023: Ceiling Fan Buyer's Guide with Price Range in Bangladesh
Ceiling fans are an essential household appliance in Bangladesh, particularly during the sweltering summer months. Fans provide a cost-effective and energy-efficient way to beat the heat while maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. This buyer's guide explores the key factors to consider when purchasing a ceiling fan in Bangladesh, ensuring that you make an informed decision that suits your needs and budget.
Things to Consider when Buying a Ceiling Fan
Energy Efficiency: When selecting a ceiling fan, it is crucial to prioritise energy efficiency. Fans that come with the ENERGY STAR® certification are designed to consume less electricity while delivering optimal performance. Energy-efficient fans not only help you save on electricity bills but also contribute to a greener environment.
Fan Size and Room Space
The size of the room plays a vital role in determining the appropriate fan size. Measure your room's dimensions and choose a fan size that matches it. Consider multiple or larger-sized fans for larger rooms to ensure adequate air circulation.
Number of Fan Blades
The number of blades affects both the fan's performance and aesthetics. While more blades may create a visually appealing look, they can also reduce airflow. Generally, fans with three to four blades offer a good balance between aesthetics and functionality.
Read more: Air Cooler Buyer's Guide with Price Ranges in Bangladesh for 2023
Fan Speed and Controls
Ceiling fans with multiple speed settings can adjust the airflow according to the user’s preference. Additionally, fans with remote controls or wall-mounted controls offer more convenient operations.
Noise Level
A noisy ceiling fan can be quite bothersome, especially in bedrooms or study areas. Opting for quiet fans will allow the user to enjoy a peaceful environment without distractions.
Style and Design
Ceiling fans are available in a wide range of styles and designs to complement different interior aesthetics. If the fan does not match the aesthetics of the room, it may look odd. Therefore, fans should be chosen considering the overall décor of the room.
Lighting Options
Some ceiling fans come equipped with built-in lighting fixtures, offering both functionality and ambiance. Consider whether you require additional lighting in the room and choose a fan with appropriate lighting options.
Read more: IPS Buyer's Guide with Price Ranges in Bangladesh
Budget Considerations
Determine your budget range for purchasing a ceiling fan. Prices can vary significantly based on diverse factors such as brand, features, and materials used. Set a realistic budget that aligns with your requirements and explore options within that range.
Class 7 student dies of heat stroke, 5 fall sick in Khulna
A school student of class 7 died and five other students fell sick from heat stroke on Tuesday (June 13, 2023) in different schools under Dumuria and Rupsa upazilas of Khulna district.
The deceased was identified as Surjit Basak, son of Anupati Basak, a class 7 student at Kalibari Secondary School.
Read: Collision of two motorbikes leaves two dead in Munshiganj
According to family sources, Surjit went to school on Tuesday morning. But on the way, he fell sick in the sweltering heat.
He was taken to Dumuria Upazila Health Complex where doctors declared him dead.
Dumuria Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Sheikh Koni Mia confirmed the death of Surjit Basak due to "cardiac arrest."
Read: Worker run over by truck in Chuadanga
Meanwhile, five students of Kajdia Secondary Girls School in Rupsa upazila fell sick from excessive heat due to load shedding during an examination. They were taken to the Upazila Health Complex.
Chand Sultana, the head teacher of the school, said, "Due to load shedding and intense heat, the students started feeling sick and lost consciousness in the exam hall. They were immediately taken to the Upazila Health Complex.”
Read: Man killed in gunfight between ARSA, RSO groups in Ukhiya Rohingya camp, police say
Air Cooler Buyer's Guide with Price Ranges in Bangladesh for 2023
Air coolers, also known as evaporative coolers, provide effective cooling by utilising the natural process of evaporation. These cooling appliances draw in warm air, pass it through water-moistened pads, and release cool and refreshing air into the room. Air coolers are comparatively more affordable and energy-efficient than air conditioners. With rising energy costs, air coolers have become a cost-effective alternative to air conditioners in Bangladesh. Let’s take a look at what factors to consider when purchasing an air cooler along with price ranges in Bangladesh.
Things to Consider when Buying an Air Cooler
Size and Portability
The size of the air cooler is an essential aspect to consider. Depending on the size of the room, the user needs to select an air cooler with an appropriate cooling capacity. Additionally, consider the portability of the unit, especially if the user plans to move it between different rooms or areas. A lightweight and compact design can make transportation easier.
Cooling Capacity
Cooling capacity is measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM) and indicates how much air the cooler can cool within a specific time. It's crucial to choose an air cooler with an adequate cooling capacity for the size of your room. A higher CFM value indicates a more potent cooling performance.
Read more: Inverter AC Prices in Bangladesh in 2023
Water Tank Capacity
The water tank capacity determines how long the air cooler can run before requiring a refill. Larger water tanks can provide longer cooling durations, reducing the need for frequent refilling. Considering usage patterns and the availability of water, the user can select an air cooler with adequate water tank capacity.
Power Consumption
Energy efficiency is a significant aspect to consider, as it affects the user’s electricity bills. It would be wise to buy an air cooler with energy-saving features or those with an energy-efficient rating. This way, the user can enjoy a cool environment without worrying about excessive power consumption.
Airflow and Fan Speed
The airflow and fan speed determine how quickly the cool air is circulated in the room. The air coolers with adjustable fan speeds allow the user to customise the cooling experience based on individual preferences. Additionally, it is recommended to consider models with oscillation features to distribute cool air more evenly.
Read more: Walton witnesses sharp rise of Smart Inverter AC sales
Noise Level
Consider the noise produced by the air cooler, especially if you plan to use it in bedrooms or study areas where silence is crucial. Look for models with low noise output, ensuring a peaceful and comfortable environment.
Price Range
Price ranges for air coolers in Bangladesh can vary depending on the brand, features, and cooling capacity. Setting a budget and comparing different models within a price range is crucial. Users need to consider the long-term cost savings of energy-efficient models and the value provided by additional features.
People suffer as severe load shedding continues countrywide
Severe load shedding continued across the country amid the sweltering heat.
As a result of power generation between 12,000 MW and 13,000 MW against the demand of nearly 16,000 MW, the people in capital Dhaka and elsewhere have been experiencing frequent power cuts that makes their lives unbearable in this peak summer when temperatures are soaring to 38-42 degree Celsius.
Also Read: Coal shortage forces Payra Power Plant to shut down operation
In the daytime power cuts already crossed 2,600 MW and it is apprehended that the outage may go up to 3,500 MW in the evening peak.
It is alleged that power supply situation is worse in the rural areas as they get electricity for 3-5 hours a day while the rest of the time they have to remain without electricity.
Also Read: Load shedding increases again with fall in power generation
Interestingly, the official data of the Power Grid Company of Bangladesh (PGCB) shows that the extent of load shedding reaches the highest peak at midnights when people remain in deep sleep.
The data also shows the country experienced 2610 MW while the demand for electricity was 14,900 MW and the generation output was 12,166 MW at 12 noon on Tuesday.
The power generation forecast at the evening peak was projected to be 14,900 MW against a projected demand of 15,800 MW when load shedding was planned for only 900 MW.
“But the reality is totally different”, said a top official at state-owned Bangladesh Power Development Board.
At the evening peak the extent of load shedding reaches 2700 MW to 3500 MW, he noted, saying the official data always does not reflect the ground reality.
Also Read: Power supply situation will improve in two weeks: Nasrul Hamid
However, the official data of PGCB, responsible for power transmission across the country, shows that the load shedding was 2815 MW at 4 pm, 2735 at 6 pm on Monday, 3266 MW at 1 am Tuesday.
The load shedding was 3215 MW at 1 am (midnight) and 3143 MW at 2 pm (midnight) on Tuesday.
Also Read: Frequent power cuts amid heat wave multiplies people’s woes
This means the extent of highest load shedding at midnight is a new phenomenon as though the country’s demand decreases at midnight, the power generation also decreases to a level of 11,000 MW.
Normally, no load shedding was seen in the midnights in the previous years. This year, load shedding at midnights has become regular.
No official from the BPDB was found to be willing to comment on the issue.
No improvement in Dhaka’s air quality amid sweltering heat
Dhaka's air quality continued to be unhealthy for sensitive groups this morning (June 5, 2023).
With an air quality index (AQI) score of 121 at 9:10 am, Dhaka ranked 8th on the list of cities around the world with the worst air quality.
India’s Delhi, Kuwait City, and Indonesia's Jakarta occupied the first three spots, with AQI scores of 161, 155 and 151, respectively.
Read: HC summons N’ganj DC, DoE officials for not complying with directives to control air pollution
When the AQI value for particle pollution is between 101 and 150, air quality is considered ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’, between 151 and 200 is ‘unhealthy’, between 201 and 300 is said to be 'very unhealthy', and a reading of 301+ is considered 'hazardous', posing serious health risks to residents.
In Bangladesh, the AQI is based on five criteria pollutants — particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), NO2, CO, SO2, and ozone.
Read: Air pollution 2nd biggest cause of deaths in Bangladesh in 2019, cost about 3.9-4.4% of GDP: World Bank
Dhaka has long grappled with air pollution issues. Its air quality usually turns unhealthy in the winter and improves during the monsoon.
Severe heat wave scorches Rajshahi, 4 other districts
Severe heat wave is sweeping over Rajshahi, Dinajpur, Nilphamari, Jashore and Chuadanga districts, said Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) on Saturday (June 3, 2023).“A mild to moderate heat wave is sweeping over Dhaka and Barishal divisions and parts of Rangpur, Rajshahi and Khulna divisions and Mymensingh, Moulvibazar, Chandpur, Noakhali and Feni districts and it may continue,” said a regular bulletin of Met office.Besides, rain or thundershowers accompanied by temporary gusty wind is likely at one or two places over Khulna, Barishal, Chattogram and Sylhet divisions and weather may remain mainly dry with temporary partly cloudy sky elsewhere over the country, it said.
Also read: Severe heatwave sweeping over Bangladesh
The highest temperature was recorded at 40.5 degree Celsius in Rajshahi on Friday (June 2, 2023). Day and night temperatures may remain nearly unchanged over the country.A trough of westerly low lies over West Bengal and adjoining area.Read more: Dhaka’s air quality unhealthy for sensitive groups Saturday morning
No respite from heat wave for 4/5 days
The mild to moderate heat wave sweeping parts of the country is likely to continue for next four to five days, said Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) on Thursday (June 01, 2023).
“Mild to moderate heat wave is sweeping over Rajshahi, Rangpur, Mymensingh, Dhaka, Khulna, Barishal and Sylhet divisions and Chattogram, Rangamati, Cumilla, Chandpur, Noakhali & Feni districts and it may continue,” said a bulletin of BMD.
Weather may remain mainly dry with the temporary partly cloudy sky over the country, having chances of light rain or thundershowers at one or two places over Dhaka, Barishal, Sylhet and Chattogram divisions, it said.
Read more: Dhaka ranks world’s 4th most polluted city this morning
Day temperature may rise slightly in Rangpur, Rajshahi and Khulna divisions and it may remain nearly unchanged elsewhere the country.
Night temperature may remain nearly unchanged over the country in 24 hours starting from 9 am on Thursday.
The lowest temperature in the country was recorded at 24 degrees Celsius in Rangamati and Bandarban on Thursday and the highest temperature was recorded at 40 degrees Celsius in Syedpur on Wednesday.
Read more: Unusually early heat wave in Pacific Northwest could break records
Mild heat wave to continue for next 4-5 days: BMD
The mild to moderate heat wave sweeping the country is likely to continue for the next four to five days, said Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) on Wednesday.
“Weather may remain mainly dry with the temporary partly cloudy sky over the country, having chances of light rain/thundershowers at one or two places over Chattogram division,” said the daily weather bulletin of BMD.
Day and night temperatures may rise slightly over the country. Southwest monsoon may advance up to Teknaf coast, in 24 hours, starting from 9 am on Tuesday.
The lowest temperature in the country was recorded at 23.3 degrees Celsius in Tetulia upazila of Panchgarh district on Wednesday and the highest temperature was recorded at 38.6 degrees Celsius in Rajshahi district on Tuesday.
Heat wave in Dhaka, some parts of country may continue: BMD
Mild heat wave is sweeping some parts of the country including Dhaka and it may continue and spread, said Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) on Tuesday.
“Mild heat wave is sweeping over Mymensingh, Dhaka, Rajshahi, Khulna & Barishal divisions and the regions of Dinajpur, Nilphamari, Sylhet, Sandwip, Sitakuda, Rangamati, Cumilla, Chandpur, Maijdee Court, Feni and Bandarban and it may continue and spread,” said the daily weather bulletin of BMD.
Weather may remain mainly dry with temporary partly cloudy skies over the country in 24 hours, starting from 9 am on Tuesday, it said.
Day and night temperatures may rise slightly over the country.
Also read: Mild heat wave sweeps parts of country: BMD
The lowest temperature in the country was recorded at 23.5 degrees Celsius in Tetulia upazila of Panchgarh district on Tuesday and the highest temperature was recorded at 38.0 degrees Celsius in Rangamati district on Monday.