Romanian is on day 3 of the red heatwave code issued by meteorologists.
Initially forecasted for the weekend, the red code has already been extended twice, both in duration and coverage, with almost the entire country now under the impact of extreme temperatures.
Where the red code is in effect on Monday and Tuesday
The red heatwave code warning issued by meteorologists for Monday and Tuesday targets Bucharest and almost all counties with three exceptions: Maramureș, Bistrița-Năsăud, and Harghita, where there is, however, an orange code, with maximum temperatures reaching 35-40 degrees.
In the red code area, the heatwave will continue to intensify. Maximum temperatures will range between 37 and 42 degrees, with coastal areas reaching maximums of 33-36 degrees.
Furthermore, the minimum temperatures will not drop below 22 degrees, leading to tropical nights.
Additionally, Romanian meteorologists warn that the heatwave will persist throughout the country even after Tuesday.
Wednesday will bring another red heatwave code, albeit more limited.
Maximum temperatures will range between 37 and 42 degrees, with coastal areas experiencing temperatures of 33...36 degrees.
Minimum temperatures will not drop below 22...24 degrees, characterizing tropical nights.
Where there is no red code, there is still an orange heatwave code. It will be scorching, with maximum temperatures reaching 33...37 degrees.
Subsequently, in the second half of the week, the heatwave will gradually diminish in intensity, but scorching temperatures and thermal discomfort will persist, especially in the southern half of the country.
Forecast for Bucharest
In Bucharest, maximum temperatures will reach 41 degrees Celsius in the following days, as shown in the special forecast published by the National Meteorological Administration.
On Monday and Tuesday, the intense heatwave will persist, with minimum temperatures of 21…23 degrees.
The sky will be variable, mostly clear in the morning and at night, with weak to moderate winds blowing.
Also, on Wednesday, the intense heatwave will continue, and thermal discomfort will remain particularly pronounced. The minimum temperature will be 24…25 degrees.
The sky will be variable, with cloudiness in the afternoon when the likelihood of showers, thunderstorms, and wind intensifications will increase.
Recommendations for the population
Experts from the General Directorate of Social Assistance of Bucharest have issued a series of preventive measures during the extreme heatwave that can have negative effects on health.
- Adequate hydration
Drink plenty of water, even if you don't feel thirsty. Avoid alcoholic beverages, coffee, and carbonated drinks, as they can contribute to dehydration. Always keep a bottle of water handy.
- Proper clothing
Wear light, light-colored, and natural materials such as cotton that allow your skin to breathe. Use wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses to protect yourself from solar radiation.
- Sun protection
Apply sunscreen with an appropriate sun protection factor (SPF) before going outside. Reapply regularly, especially after sweating or contact with water.
- Avoiding sun exposure
Stay indoors during peak hours (10:00 AM - 6:00 PM) when solar radiation is strongest. If you must go outside, seek shaded areas and take frequent breaks in the shade or cool places.
- Using ventilation and air conditioning
Keep your home well ventilated. Use fans or air conditioning to cool the rooms. Spend time in air-conditioned public spaces, such as malls or libraries, if you don't have air conditioning at home.
- Light diet
Consume light meals rich in fruits and vegetables, which have a high water content. Avoid heavy, fatty foods that can cause additional discomfort.
- Monitoring vulnerable individuals
Pay special attention to children, the elderly, and individuals with chronic medical conditions who are more sensitive to the effects of extreme heat. Periodically check the health status of these individuals and ensure they are well hydrated and cooled.
- Physical activity
Limit intense outdoor physical activities during heatwaves. If you need to exercise, choose cooler times of the day, such as early morning or late evening.
- Recognizing signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke
Experts recommend being attentive to symptoms of heat exhaustion: profuse sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, headaches. In the case of heatstroke, symptoms may include dry and hot skin, confusion, loss of consciousness.