· 2 min read
illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on Euronews or enjoy below:
🗞️ Driving the news: Dubai's "feels like" temperature reached a dangerous 62°C due to a combination of high heat and humidity, generating a heat index much higher than the recorded air temperature
• Kuwait also experienced extreme heat, with temperatures nearing the country's record high
🔭 The context: The heat index, which factors in both temperature and humidity, makes conditions feel significantly hotter than the actual temperature
• High humidity prevents sweat from evaporating, hindering the body's ability to cool down, which can be lethal if exposure is prolonged
🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Extreme heat and humidity pose serious health risks, especially for outdoor workers and vulnerable populations
• The increased use of air conditioning to cope with the heat raises energy consumption, leading to higher carbon emissions and environmental stress
⏭️ What's next: Authorities in Dubai and Kuwait are advising residents to stay indoors, stay hydrated, and avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours
Both countries are also urging citizens to conserve electricity to prevent power grid overloads
💬 One quote: “Climatic conditions where high heat and humidity occur at the same time are particularly deadly,” highlighting the severe impact on human health
📈 One stat: In Dubai, the "feels like" temperature reached 62°C on July 17, 2024, significantly higher than the recorded air temperature of 43°C
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