Macedonia gripped by new heatwave

Macedonia is once again gripped by a new heat wave, which will bring high temperatures and UV index.

According to the announcement from the National Hydrometeorological Service, the temperature today will reach 38 degrees, and up to 41 Degrees Celsius in the next three days. The UV index will be 8 and 9.

According to the Service, lowering of the temperatures can be expected on Monday.

Macedonia in orange alert phase, temperatures to exceed 40C

Macedonia is set to enter the so-called orange alert phase on Tuesday, with temperatures exceeding 40C.

The Health Ministry commission urges citizens to observe preventive measures in order to reduce risks from high temperatures.

According to the Action Plan for the population's protection from high temperatures, employers are recommended to spare most vulnerable groups, namely pregnant women and persons over the age of 60, from work. Kindergartens are recommended to refrain from taking children out in the open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Moreover, construction companies are urged to follow regulations with regards to exposure of workers.

GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE PUBLIC DURING HEAT WAVES

Stay in closed, air-conditioned rooms. During the day, close windows and shutters; at night when the outside temperature is lower, open windows and shutters.

Wear light and loose fitting clothes (light colours reflect light) of natural materials and, if exposed to direct sunlight, a brimmed hat or cap and sunglasses.

Eat several small, light meals a day. Avoid food which contains fat and high-calories, as well as food with a lot of sugar.

Drink plenty of fluids (do not wait to become thirsty), including regular drinks of water and non-alcohol beverages. Avoid beverages with alcohol, caffeine and extremely cold beverages.

When driving, keep the vehicle window open for ventilation. Completely closed vehicles become too hot. Do not leave anybody in the vehicle!

People who are chronically ill, especially those with cardiovascular, neurological or pulmonary illnesses, need to be especially vigilant in following these recommendations and taking their medicines. For any changes in the medical condition, consult your doctor.

Consume cooked food immediately after preparation. If this is not the case, the prepared food should be stored in the refrigerator at 8°C and heated to at least 100°C before consumption!

Avoid products containing raw food, such as home-made mayonnaise (eggs). Care should also be taken when consuming ice-cream and different creams!

Avoid strenuous physical activities (including sport and recreational activities) during the hottest time of the day. Do them before 10 a.m. or after 5 p.m.

If you have to go outdoors in this period, take frequent rests in the shade and avoid direct exposure to the sun.

Take cool showers or baths several times a day. Alternatives include cold packs and wraps, foot baths, etc.

Heatwave in Macedonia, drivers warned to follow rules

Drivers to obey traffic rules and regulations, to respect traffic signs and to adjust their speed while driving, while motorists are obliged to wear protective equipment. These general recommendations, experts say, need to be taken into consideration in the summer when the number of traffic accidents is on the rise, according to statistics.

"Most traffic accidents with severe consequences in Macedonia are registered in the months of July and August," shows a research "The Impact of High Temperatures in the Summer on Road Traffic Safety", presented Wednesday at the National Road Traffic Safety Council.

"Anyone can cause a car crash or become a victim in an accident. Hence, the behaviour of all participants in traffic is essential. Drivers must not improvise, they must act with responsibility, respect traffic signs and adjust their speed," Interior Minister Gordana Jankuloska said.

The Council and the Red Cross of Macedonia have signed a memorandum of cooperation on carrying out activities focused on informing and educating people about the consequences of rising temperatures on health.