By Gbenga Gbelee

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (MiMET) has predicted that a good

number of Nigerians would likely experience what it called “above danger

heat stress” this year due to the combination of heat and humidity.

In its 2017 Seasonal Rainfall Prediction, NiMet, said uncontrolled exposure

to the heat for too long could cause heat stress which may, in turn, lead to

several illnesses collectively called “hyperthermia”.

The agency noted that people in the older age bracket could have a tough

time dealing with the heat and humidity, as most people who die from

hyperthermia globally each year were over 50 years.

NiMet highlighted some of the heat related complications to include heat

syncope, heat cramps, heat edema, heat exhaustion and heat stroke, adding

that Nigerians were no exception.

According to the agency, heat syncope is a sudden dizziness that can

happen when one is active outdoors under hot weather condition.

The agency said Heat cramps are the painful tightening of muscles in your

stomach, arms or legs which can result from hard work while Heat

exhaustion is- a warning that the body can no longer keep itself cool

thereby resulting in thirst, dizziness, weakness and uncontrolled

perspiration.

NiMet warned that older people and people who become dehydrated or

those with chronic diseases or alcoholism are at most risk.