What To Do During Heat Wave-Commissioner
LASG WARNS RESIDENTS OF IMPENDING EXTREME HEAT, URGES EARLY ADOPTION OF PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES
… As El Niño Climate Pattern Raises Concerns Over Rising Temperatures, Health, Air Quality
The Lagos State Government on Friday urged residents to prepare for possible extreme heat conditions and associated environmental and public health challenges as climate outlooks raise concerns over rising temperatures across parts of Africa, including Nigeria.
The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, gave this advisory, emphasising the need for residents to take preventive measures to protect their health and wellbeing.
Wahab explained that the strengthening El Niño climate pattern, alongside the seasonal transition into the dry season, could contribute to unusual temperature conditions, increased heat discomfort, dry spells, dust and deteriorating air quality.
He noted that although the intensity and local impact of these conditions would depend on prevailing weather patterns, residents must take the emerging climate risks seriously and prepare adequately.
The Commissioner observed that Lagos, as a densely populated and rapidly urbanising coastal city, could face heightened exposure to extreme heat.
“The concentration of buildings, roads and other heat-absorbing infrastructure, coupled with limited green spaces and inadequate ventilation in some neighbourhoods, could intensify temperatures in built-up areas”, he said.
He stressed that the urban heat effect could make conditions particularly uncomfortable for residents in densely populated communities and informal settlements.
He warned that prolonged exposure to excessive heat could result in dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke, with potentially serious consequences if not promptly addressed.
According to him, Children, older persons, pregnant women, outdoor workers, street traders, construction workers, waste handlers and individuals with underlying health conditions are identified as particularly vulnerable at this time.
The Commissioner therefore called on families, employers, schools and community leaders to pay special attention to these groups and ensure that appropriate protective measures are in place to reduce the effect of the predicted extreme harsh weather.
Wahab cautioned that extreme heat could compound existing air-quality challenges, particularly during the dry season when dust and haze may increase respiratory irritation, adding that people living with respiratory conditions could experience aggravated symptoms, while increased reliance on petrol- and diesel-powered generators during power interruptions could further worsen local air pollution.
He consequently urged residents to avoid open burning of refuse and adopt environmentally responsible practices, advising residents to drink sufficient water regularly, wear lightweight and breathable clothing, seek shade and well-ventilated spaces, and reduce strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest periods of the day.
He also encouraged schools, markets, workplaces and other public facilities to provide adequate ventilation, access to drinking water and shaded areas where people can take breaks.
He urged residents to remain alert to the warning signs of heat-related illnesses, including excessive sweating, dizziness, headache, weakness, nausea and muscle cramps, adding that anyone experiencing these symptoms should be moved to a cooler environment, given appropriate cooling assistance and taken for medical attention where necessary.
“Sudden Collapse or loss of consciousness should be treated as medical emergencies requiring immediate attention; Residents with respiratory conditions are also advised to limit exposure to dusty environments and follow relevant health and air-quality advisories”, he said.
The Commissioner emphasised that preparedness must go beyond individual precautions, calling for stronger collaboration among government agencies, environmental experts, health institutions, businesses and community stakeholders.
He also urged residents and businesses to support efforts to reduce urban heat by protecting existing trees, promoting tree planting, preserving green spaces, ensuring proper waste disposal and discouraging activities that contribute to environmental degradation.
He stressed that environmental sustainability and climate resilience require collective responsibility, particularly as Lagos continues to address the impacts of climate change and rapid urbanisation.
Wahab assured residents that the Ministry, through its relevant agencies, would continue to engage stakeholders and promote public awareness on emerging environmental risks, while working with appropriate institutions, including the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), the Lagos State Ministry of Health and the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), to strengthen preparedness and response.
