Srinagar, June 23 — As the heatwave continues to grip Jammu and Kashmir, doctors have emphasized the importance of staying well-hydrated and urged extra precautions, especially for vulnerable groups, including the elderly, children, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic conditions.
Jammu and Kashmir has been experiencing an unusual rise in temperatures in recent years. On June 19, the Kashmir Valley recorded its hottest June day in two decades, with temperatures soaring to 35.2°C.
Dr. S. Muhammad Salim Khan, Professor and Head of the Department of Community Medicine at GMC Srinagar, highlighted the need for basic health precautions to mitigate the risks associated with extreme heat.
“Kashmir, traditionally known for its temperate climate, is now experiencing intense heat due to global climate change. Heatwaves increase evaporation, especially around water bodies, resulting in high humidity that can negatively impact human health,” Dr. Khan said.
He further explained that excessive heat leads to increased sweating, causing rapid fluid loss, which could result in dehydration, heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and even cardiovascular complications. Dr. Khan warned that children, the elderly, and people with conditions such as diabetes and hypertension are particularly vulnerable.
He advised the public to drink fluids regularly, particularly in the morning and during work hours, and to consume fresh fruits with high water content.
“People should avoid sugary or carbonated drinks, as well as tea and coffee, which can exacerbate dehydration. Homemade fluids like ORS, lassi, buttermilk, and soups are ideal to replace lost minerals and fluids,” he said.
To protect themselves from the sun, Dr. Khan recommended avoiding outdoor activities between 12 noon and 4 pm and wearing light-colored, loose-fitting clothes. He also suggested using protective items like scarves, caps, umbrellas, and sunscreen to shield against harmful UV rays.
Dr. Khan also cautioned against consuming stale food or unwashed fruits and vegetables, as these can increase the risk of diarrheal diseases, which are more common in summer.
“People using fans for sleep should replenish fluids often, as evaporation can increase fluid loss. Special care must be taken for children and the elderly to prevent heat-related illnesses,” he said.
If symptoms such as exhaustion, dizziness, nausea, or confusion arise, Dr. Khan stressed the importance of seeking immediate medical help.
Health experts have also advised avoiding caffeine, closely monitoring urine output, and ensuring proper hydration throughout the day.
In response to the heatwave, people have expressed difficulty in stepping outside during the day, as the extreme heat is unusual for the region.
Dr. Khalid Rahman, MD Physician and Medical Officer with the J&K Health Department, advised against strenuous activities during the hottest hours, recommending rescheduling them for early morning or evening. He also encouraged the public to monitor weather updates and heatwave warnings through official sources, such as the Bureau of Meteorology or its mobile app.
For those with hypertension or diabetes, Dr. Rahman emphasised sticking to their prescribed medication schedules and warned that the extreme heat could also trigger fungal infections.
Child specialists have issued a strong recommendation for parents to protect infants, who are particularly vulnerable to dehydration. They urged parents to avoid taking children outside during peak heat hours.
