Heat waves expected
Updated: 26-Jun-2008
According to the institute, temperatures for June, July and August are expected to be 0.5 degrees above average, with the highest likely to be recorded in central and southern Portugal.
Meteorologist Manuel Costa Alves said: “If the predictions are correct then we could have a very serious situation, similar to that of 2003 when 1,953 people died because of the heat.”
As well as high temperatures, the meteorological institute also alerts to high levels of ultra violet (UV) radiation, which is measured on a scale from the lowest level of one to the highest level of 11.
The UV levels for the Algarve are expected to remain at a minimum of Very High (between eight and 10) this summer, with the use of sun glasses with adequate UV protection, a hat, t-shirt and high factor sun lotion recommended.
For daily weather forecasts and UV predictions, please visit the website, available in English, at www.meteo.pt
Deaths increase
Meanwhile, a national study has revealed that deaths increase by 60 per cent in hospitals without air conditioning during a heat wave.
The study was carried out by the Instituto Nacional de Saúde Dr. Ricardo Jorge, which collected data from all 41 state-run hospitals in Portugal. Researchers compared the deaths of patients aged above 45 during heat waves and found that only 30 per cent of the deaths occurred in air conditioned rooms. Patients over the age of 65 and those interned in general hospitals were found to be most at risk.
Do you have a view on this story? Email: editor@the-resident.com
|
top