UAE summer temperature crosses 51°C: Tips to stay cool

Dubai - Here are the ways to keep yourself safe

The UAE summer has arrived early.

The country recorded its hottest temperature yet over the weekend, with the mercury soaring to 51°C at Sweihan in Al Ain.

And it’s only going to get hotter. So, we spoke to experts and doctors to keep you safe and cool amid scorching summer temperatures.

It's summer in UAE: Here are the ways to keep yourself safe

>> Stay hydrated and make a splash:

- Keep a water bottle handy, even if you don’t feel thirsty.

- It’s important that you’re aware of your body and hydration levels.

Dr Vrishali Rohankar, General Practitioner & Medical Director, Aster Clinic, listed out the signs to look out for to avoid heat strokes:

- Dizziness or headaches

- Dry mouth

- Rapid heart rate

- Difficulty walking

- Fatigue

- Muscle cramps

- Shallow, rapid breathing

Many people are also prone to urinary tract infection due to dehydration, where urine becomes concentrated and leads to bacterial growth. Dehydration can also lead to kidney and ureteric stones.

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General tips:

- Drink plenty of electrolyte or sports drinks to replace the salts and potassium lost through sweat.

- Eating water-content foods such as fruits, vegetables and soups is also a good way to stay hydrated in summer.

>> Avoid the great outdoors:

It is advisable to avoid going out, especially during peak day time. Dr Vrishali said: “Reduce outdoor activities, especially from 11am to 4pm.”

Apply a sunscreen lotion with UVA-UVB protection when venturing outdoors.

>> Exercise, but at the right time:

It is advisable to schedule rigorous activity and sports during cooler times of the day to avoid myalgia and heat-related muscle cramps.

“The best time to do exercise is either early morning or in the evening after 5pm. You can also do indoor exercises such as yoga, aerobics, Zumba, Pilates or exercise at the gym at any time of the day,” Dr Vaishali added.