For the coming days, meteorologists give an unfavorable forecast. Since Monday, Greece has been covered with African dust. At the same time, the air temperature has risen significantly and in the coming days it can reach + 40 ° С.
On Tuesday, the National Observatory’s weather service released a series of safety instructions for vulnerable groups in an emergency bulletin.
The service advises young children, the elderly and people with health problems to drink plenty of water, eat only light food, avoid any unnecessary exposure and physical activity, and when going outside, dress in light clothes and cover your head with a hat or umbrella.
It is also advisable to take care of elderly friends and relatives who live alone.
According to Meteo, the heatwave that has come to Greece from North Africa since Monday will reach daily highs in much of mainland Greece and the Peloponnese up to 38-39 degrees Celsius and above 40C in certain areas.
Temperatures will be more bearable on the islands, where highs will not exceed 35 degrees Celsius.
On Wednesday, temperatures peaked at 36 degrees in western Macedonia, 38 degrees in the rest of northern Greece and 40 degrees in parts of mainland Greece. Temperatures are expected to continue to rise throughout the week, peaking on Thursday.
High levels of humidity and dust exacerbate challenging weather conditions, Meteo said.
African dust in the atmosphere and human health
Air pollution, the presence of African dust in it often causes health problems. On days when the concentration of dust in the air is increased, there is an increase in the number of patients with respiratory problems who come to clinics.
The shock is caused by new studies by Greek and foreign scientists, who have revealed a whole list of dangerous heavy metals contained in African dust. And she “visits” our country more and more often in recent years, in connection with the phenomenon of desertification noted in the Sahara.
According to measurements carried out during 2019 in Athens and Halkidiki, dust carried from Africa carries poisonous substances such as lead, zinc, chromium, vanadium, arsenic and nickel into our country, the content of which is prohibitive.
Recommendations of doctors
Experts from the ministries of the environment and health advise to avoid contact with dust. In cases where the concentration of dust exceeds the safety limit, people with respiratory and heart disease, children and people over 65 years of age should avoid any outdoor physical activity. In addition, you shouldn’t even just be outdoors, especially in areas with high traffic. People with asthma may need more frequent inhalation of medication to reduce symptoms of the disease. If symptoms persist, it is recommended to consult a doctor.
We also recommend tips and tricks published in the material – “Beware of the heat”
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