The Community of Madrid, through the Madrid 112 Security and Emergencies Agency, has announced the activation of a Heatwave warning in the southern zone. This measure, communicated by the Area of Health Environmental Risk Surveillance, raises the risk level to Level 2 (High Risk) for the Southern, Vegas, and Western zones, as well as for the Metropolitan and Henares zones.
The maximum temperatures forecast for the coming days are 39.0 °C for Wednesday, July 29, 39.4 °C on Thursday, July 30, and 38.5 °C on Friday, July 31. The risk level was calculated using an algorithm that compares the predicted maximum temperatures with the reference thresholds for the different geographical zones of the community.
The statement details the population groups particularly vulnerable to high temperatures, including infants, children, individuals over 65 years old, those with chronic illnesses (cerebrovascular, cardiovascular, respiratory, neurological, diabetes), and outdoor workers or athletes.
It warns that heatwaves can cause various conditions such as dermatitis, edema, burns, sunstroke, cramps, heat syncope, and in more severe cases, heat exhaustion or heatstroke, which can be fatal or leave significant sequelae.
Symptoms of heatstroke include elevated body temperature (up to 40°C), hot, red, and dry skin, headache, nausea, drowsiness, intense thirst, confusion, seizures, and loss of consciousness.
General recommendations are provided to mitigate the effects of heat, such as maintaining constant hydration (at least 2 liters of fluids per day, avoiding alcohol), avoiding exposure during the hottest hours of the day, taking frequent breaks, staying in cool places, and showering or cooling down often.
Additionally, it is advisable to eat light meals, increase consumption of salads and fruits, and protect oneself from the sun with sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. It is recommended to consult a doctor for complementary measures if taking medication or suffering from a chronic condition.
Special attention should be paid to elderly family members, friends, or neighbors, especially if they live alone, as well as to infants and young children, monitoring them for irritability or inconsolable crying and keeping them cool and hydrated.
The importance of following information from the media and socio-health services is reiterated, and in case of any emergency, to call 112. All information is available on the Community of Madrid Heat and Health website.
