Temperatures to cross 40°C in several cities: Met

Muscat: After the series of air troughs that followed one another moderated temperatures for most of April, the Sultanate is now at the start of the summer season.

Temperatures are expected to be around 37°C to 42°C in most parts of the country, except Saiq.

Muscat will have temperatures around 39°C, Suhar 37°C, Sur 39°C, Ibra 40°C, Rustaq 39°C, Haima 42°C, Duqm 38°C, Khasab 37°C, Buraimi 39°C, Ibri 40°C, Nizwa 42°C, Thumrait 42°C.

Overall, skies will be clear over most of the governorates with a chance of dust rising due to fresh winds over desert and open areas.

Though the frequency of rainfall due to low-pressure developments in the Arabian Sea, has increased over the past few years, the summers have been getting hotter while winters have got less severe.

There are already apprehensions over the severity of summer heat during May and July as several countries in Asia are now fighting heat waves without any success. According to reports, temperatures have been regularly crossing 40°C in several cities and even taking lives due to heat strokes.

The tourist destination of Thailand had temperatures crossing 45°C for the first time in its history, promoting the authorities to warn residents to avoid outdoor activities and be wary of the danger of heat stroke.

The WHO has warned that people should keep their bodies cool and hydrated by taking cool showers or baths during a heatwave. Other measures include the use of cold packs and wraps, towels, sponging, and foot baths to keep cool, and wearing light, loose-fitting clothes of natural materials. It also suggests drinking water regularly but avoiding too much caffeine and sugar.

Eat small meals and eat more often. If you feel dizzy, weak, anxious, or have intense thirst and headache during a heatwave, it is best to move to a cool place as soon as possible and measure your body temperature.

Drink some water or fruit juice to rehydrate, WHO said. During a heatwave. ideally, the room temperature should be kept below 32°C during the day and 24°C during the night. This is especially important for infants or adults over the age of 60 or who have chronic health conditions.