25 Jul 2018 | 08:40 AM UTC
Finland: Heat and wildfire alerts in effect nationwide July 25
Orange heat warnings issued for southern and central Finland July 25; yellow alerts in the north
Event
The Network of European Meteorological Services (EUMETNET) has issued orange alerts for the southern and central regions of Finland, in effect as of the morning of Wednesday, July 25 (local time). Lower yellow alerts are also in effect for northern regions. The warnings are currently set to remain in place until Thursday evening.
Yellow forest fire alerts are also in effect in the following regions: Ahvenanmaa, Etelä-Pohjanmaa, Kemi, Keminmaa, Keski-Pohjanmaa, Keski-Suomi, Kymenlaakso, Päijät-Häme, Pohjanmaa, and Pohjois-Pohjanmaa Eteläinen.
Context
These high temperatures could be hazardous to health, particularly for
the elderly, young children, and people suffering from chronic illnesses
such as cardiac issues, hypertension, and diabetes. Symptoms of
heatstroke include high fever, hot, red, dry skin, headache, nausea,
drowsiness, intense thirst, confusion, convulsions, and loss of
consciousness.
Meanwhile, major forest fires are raging in Sweden, Finland’s neighbor to the west. As of Tuesday the wildfires there had burned some 25,000 hectares (61,800 acres) amid dry conditions and an ongoing heatwave.
Advice
Individuals in affected areas are advised to keep abreast of local weather forecasts, avoid strenuous outdoor activity, remain indoors as much as possible between noon and 16:00 when temperatures tend to peak, remain well hydrated (with sugar-free, non-alcoholic beverages), and wear loose, light-colored clothing. Do not hesitate to seek medical attention if displaying symptoms of heatstroke.
In the event of wildfires, adhere to any instruction issued by the local authorities.
