heatwave
How to Protect Your Skin and Hair from Sun Damage
To maintain the health of skin and hair, it is essential to take regular care in every season. The heat waves during summer months cause sweating and dehydration. Understanding how to protect and nourish the skin and hair can help you to minimise damages caused by sun heat. This article will explore effective tips to keep your skin and hair healthy, glowing, and protected during the warmer months.
Skincare Tips for Summer
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Hydration is Key
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is important to stay hydrated from within. Proper hydration helps maintain skin elasticity and suppleness, preventing it from becoming dry and flaky under the summer sun. It also keeps you safe from heat stroke caused by the scorching summer heat.
Cleansing and Exfoliating
You should cleanse your skin twice daily to remove sweat, dirt, and sunscreen buildup. It is also necessary to exfoliate regularly to unclog pores and remove dead skin cells. It can promote a smoother and more radiant complexion.
Read more: Collagen Supplements: Benefits, Side Effects, Dosage
Lightweight and Non-Comedogenic Products
It is highly recommended to opt for lightweight, oil-free moisturisers, serums, and sunscreens that won't clog pores or feel heavy on your skin. Try to look for products labelled "non-comedogenic" to prevent breakouts.
Introduce Antioxidants
It would be beneficial to incorporate antioxidant-rich skincare products into your routine to combat free radical damage caused by UV radiation and environmental pollutants. You should look for ingredients like vitamin C, vitamin E, and green tea extract.
Sun Protection
It is crucial to apply sunscreen with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) to all exposed areas of your skin, including your face, neck, arms, and legs. Reapplying sunscreen every two hours is equally important, especially if you are swimming or sweating.
Read more: How to Choose the Right Sunscreen for Your Skin
Customised Skincare
Not every person has same type skin. Customising skincare routine acording to the specific type and condition of skin can help to avoid rashes and other skin related issues.
It is vital to tailor your skincare routine to suit your skin type. If you have oily skin use oil-free water-based products, hydrating products for dry skin, and use gentle, non-irritating products for sensitive skin.
Use Sun Protection Clothes and Acessories
Experts suggest to wear lightweight and breathable clothing during extreme hot weather. It would be wise to choose light-cloured and cotton fabric made clothes to stay safe from heat exhaustion.
Besides choosing summer-freindly outfits, you need to use protective acessories like umbrellas, hats, and sunglasses for added protection.
Read more: Korean Skincare Routine: 10 Skincare Hacks
Healthy Eating
It is very important to eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids to nourish your skin from the inside out. You should limit your sugary and processed foods intake, which can contribute to inflammation and breakouts.
Heat wave may persist in five districts: BMD
The ongoing mild heat wave in Rajshahi, Pabna, Rangpur, Dinajpur & Nilphamari districts may last for more days, according to Bangladesh Meteorological Department.
It forecast light to moderate rains in different parts of the country in 24 hours commencing 9am on Monday (July 24, 2023).
Read: Summer Heatwave: Here’s How to Keep Children Safe
“Light to moderate rain/thunder showers accompanied by temporary gusty wind is likely at many places over Mymensingh & Sylhet divisions; at a few places over Rangpur & Chattogram divisions and at one or two places over Rajshahi, Dhaka, Khulna & Barishal divisions with moderately heavy falls at places over Sylhet & Mymensingh divisions,” said a bulletin of BMD.
Day and night temperature may remain nearly unchanged over the country.
Read: Heatwave sweeping Chuadanga with country’s highest temperature
The axis of monsoon trough runs through Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Bihar, Gangetic WestBengal to Assam across southern part of Bangladesh. One of its associated troughs extends up to North Bay.
Monsoon is less active over Bangladesh and moderate over North Bay, said the bulletin.
7 Comforting Soups for Upset Stomach
As the temperature rises, hot weather can make people more prone to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and digestive discomfort. Due to the scorching heat of the sun, the digestive system can become sluggish, leading to indigestion, gas, and bloating. To combat these problems, it's essential to focus on light and easily digestible foods. Soups are an excellent option as they provide hydration, gentle nourishment, and can be customized with ingredients that aid digestion. Let's take a look into some easy-to-prepare comforting soup recipes to treat stomach upset, and bloating.
Recipes of 7 Soothing Soups to Heal Upset Stomach
Chicken Vegetable Soup
Ingredients
500 gram boneless chicken breast, kosher salt (to taste), pepper (to taste), 2 tablespoon olive oil, 1 medium onion (diced), 2 celery sticks (chopped), 2 medium carrots (sliced), 2-3 garlic cloves (minced), 400 gram tomatoes (diced), 1 large potato (cut into small cubes), 1 large zucchini (diced), 250 gram mushroom (diced), 8 cups chicken stock (low on salt), and 2 tablespoon parsley (chopped).
Read more: 5 Soups to Soothe a Cold
Instructions
First, season the chicken with salt and pepper. Follow the procedure to sear the chicken in oil until golden brown and set aside. After that, add onion, celery, and carrots to the pot, and sauté them for 2-3 minutes.
Then include the garlic, tomatoes, potatoes, zucchini, and mushrooms one by one. And next, pour in the stock. At this time, add the chicken into the pot. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and allow it to simmer for 35 minutes or until the chicken and vegetables are fully cooked. You can serve it with a chopped parsley garnish.
Read more: Summer Heatwave: Here’s How to Keep Children Safe
Lentil Soup
Ingredients
2 tablespoon olive oil, 1 onion (chopped), 2 garlic cloves (mined), 1 large carrot (chopped), 2 celery ribs (chopped), 400 gram lentils (rinsed), 400 gram tomato (crushed), 1.5 liters vegetable stock, ½ teaspoon cumin and coriander powder, 1 ½ teaspoon paprika powder, 2 bay leaves, 1 lemon (zest + juice), ¼ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon pepper, and fresh parsley (to garnish).
Summer Heatwave: Here’s How to Keep Children Safe
The summer heat can be excruciating, with soaring temperatures that are amplified by the impact of global warming. When the mercury rises, like the adults, children often suffer different health issues. Let’s find out how parents can keep their children safe from heat-related illness.
Heat-related Illness: Heatstroke vs Heat Exhaustion
Heatstroke
Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition caused by a malfunction in the body's temperature regulation system. Often it happens due to exposure to high temperatures or intense physical exertion in hot weather.
Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion is a milder heat-related illness resulting from prolonged heat exposure and insufficient fluid intake. It occurs when the body becomes dehydrated and loses electrolytes through excessive sweating. Without proper treatment, it can cause heatstroke.
Read more: Class 7 student dies of heat stroke, 5 fall sick in Khulna
Causes of Heatstroke and Heat Exhaustion in Children
Immature Thermoregulatory System
Young children have a less developed ability to regulate their body temperature compared to adults. Their sweat glands may not function as efficiently, making it more challenging for them to cool down effectively in hot environments.
Increased Surface Area to Body Weight Ratio
Usually, children have larger surface areas relative to their body weight, which means they can absorb heat from the environment more quickly. This makes them more susceptible to overheating and increases the risk of heat-related illnesses.
Limited Self-awareness
Children may not recognise the signs of overheating or may not communicate their discomfort effectively. They might continue playing or engaging in physical activities despite feeling excessively hot. It increases their risk of getting ill from high heat.
Read more: Heat Stroke Prevention: Best foods, drinks to avoid heat exhaustion
Lack of Hydration Knowledge
Sometimes children are not aware of the importance of staying hydrated and forget to drink water regularly. Under the scorching summer sun, kids may continue playing, neglecting the necessity of fluid intake, which can increase their risk of dehydration.
Dependency on Adults
Children mostly rely on adults to provide them with water, shade, and appropriate clothing choices. If somehow a child is not adequately hydrated, does not take breaks, or does not take protective measures due to the negligence of the caregiver, he/she can be at a higher risk of heatstroke and heat exhaustion.
Participation in Sports or Activities
Children engaged in intense physical activities, or playing outdoors under the sun, are more at the risk of heat exhaustion. It happens especially when proper precautions are not taken. Extended periods of exertion in hot weather without adequate rest and hydration increase the risk significantly.
Read more: Heat Stroke: Symptoms, First Aid, and Prevention
Staying in Enclosed Spaces or Vehicles
Leaving children in enclosed spaces, such as a parked car under the sun, even for a short time, can be harmful for their health. Due to summer heatwaves, the temperature inside a vehicle can rise quickly, posing a severe risk of heatstroke or even death.
Lack of Adjustment
Children who have not acclimatised gradually to hot weather conditions are at higher risk of heat-related illnesses. Sudden exposure to extreme heat overwhelms their bodies. Their organs may struggle to regulate the body-temperature effectively.
Certain Medical Conditions
Children with specific medical conditions, such as asthma, obesity, diabetes, or heart disease, may have a higher risk of heat-related illnesses. These conditions can affect the body's ability to regulate temperature or increase the vulnerability to dehydration.
Read more: Summer 2023: Ceiling Fan Buyer's Guide with Price Range in Bangladesh
It is essential to be careful of these causes and take necessary precautions to protect children from excessive heat exposure. To ensure they remain adequately hydrated in hot environments is essential.
Heatwave likely to continue for 5 to 6 days: Met office
The prevailing mild, moderate and severe heatwave may continue for five to six days across the country, according to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department.
Due to excessive moister incursion, the discomfort may continue, it said.
“A severe heatwave is sweeping Rajshahi and Pabna and it is likely to continue. Besides, a mild to moderate heat wave is lashing Dhaka, Rangpur, Mymensingh, Sylhet, Khulna and Barishal divisions and parts of Rajshahi division and the regions of Chattogram, Rangamati, Cumilla, Chandpur, Noakhali and Bandarban,” according to the morning bulletin of Met office.
Read: No improvement in Dhaka’s air quality amid sweltering heat
Besides, rain or thunder showers accompanied by temporary gusty wind is likely at one or two places over Chattogram and Sylhet divisions. The weather may remain mainly dry with a temporary partly cloudy sky elsewhere over the country, it added.
Day temperature may remain nearly unchanged and night temperature may rise slightly over the country, as per the bulletin.
Read: Tips to Keep Home Cool in Summer Without AC
The weather office recorded the highest rainfall of 14mm in Rangamati in 24 hours till 6 am on Tuesday (June 6, 2023).
The highest temperature was recorded at 40.7 degrees Celsius in Rajshahi on Monday, while the lowest temperature was recorded at 23.2 degrees in Bandarban on Tuesday. In the capital the highest temperature was 38.6 degree Celsius on Monday (June 5, 2023).
Severe heatwave across 4 northern districts likely to continue
A severe heatwave is sweeping over the districts of Rajshahi, Naogaon, Nilphamari and Dinajpur and it is likely to continue.
Meanwhile, a mild to moderate heatwave is sweeping over Dhaka, Mymensingh, Khulna and Barishal divisions, the rest of Rangpur and Rajshahi divisions, and the districts of Moulvibazar, Chandpur and Noakhali, according to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department's morning bulletin.
Rain or thundershowers accompanied by temporary gusty wind are likely to occur at one or two places over Khulna, Barishal, Chattogram and Sylhet divisions, and weather may remain mainly dry with a temporary partly cloudy sky elsewhere over the country, it added.
Read: Frequent power cuts amid heat wave multiplies people’s woes
Day and night temperatures may remain nearly unchanged over the country, as per the bulletin.
The prevailing heatwave in the country is likely to continue for the next 72 hours.
The weather office recorded the highest rainfall of 60mm in Netrakona under Mymensingh division in 24 hours till 6 am on Sunday.
The highest temperature was recorded at 41 degree Celsius in Rajshahi, while the lowest temperature was recorded at 23.5 degrees in Mymensingh.
Read: Heat wave in Asia made 30 times more likely because of climate change, scientists say
Met Office predicts rain in Barishal, Ctg, Sylhet; heatwave to continue in Dhaka
Amid sweltering heat in most parts of the country, Bangladesh Metrological Department (BMD) has predicted rains and thundershowers at one or two places in Barishal, Chattogram and Sylhet divisions in 24 hours from 9 am on Monday (April 17, 2023).“Weather may remain dry with temporary partly cloudy sky over the country, having chances of rain or thunder showers at one or two places over Barishal, Chattogram and Sylhet divisions,” said a Met office bulletin.
Severe heat wave is sweeping over Khulna division and Dhaka, Faridpur, Gopalgang, Manikganj, Narayanganj, Rajshahi and Pabna districts.
Read More: Khulna reeling under severe heatwave
Mild to moderate heat wave is sweeping elsewhere over the country & it may continue.
Day and night temperatures may remain nearly unchanged over the country.
A trough of low lies over West Bengal and adjoining area. Seasonal low lies over South Bay.
Read more: Bangladesh: Heatwave may abate in 24 hrs
Delicious Bhorta Recipes for This Pahela Baishakh
Bhorta (mashed) food items are an integral part of Bengali cuisine. Especially, during the scorching heat of summer days, bhorta made with vegetables, greens, or peels can keep the body cool and the mind at peace. Besides, bhorta items can be made with fish that are either boiled, steamed, baked, charred, or lightly fried. During Pahela Baishakh, or Bengali New Year, Bangladeshis love to eat different bhorta items along with panta rice and fried hilsa fish. Let’s take a look at 10 mouth-watering bhorta recipes to celebrate this Pahela Baishakh.
10 Tasty Bhorta Recipes for Pahela Baishakh
Egg-Potato Mashed Recipe (Dim-Aloo Bhorta)
Ingredients
Potatoes - 3-4, egg - 1 (boiled), onion - 1/8 cup (chopped), dry red chilies - 4 (as you like), salt - ½ teaspoon, and mustard oil - 2 tbsp.
Preparations
First, wash potatoes and eggs properly. Now boil potatoes in 4 cups of water for 20 minutes in a deep pan. Then add the egg and cook for another 12 minutes. When the potatoes become tender and the egg boils well, take them out of the hot water. Don’t put potatoes in the hot water for a long time as they will be too soft and moist by absorbing water. Then peel the potatoes and egg after they cool down.
Now, take a bowl and mash the potatoes and egg. Meanwhile, take another bowl and mash roasted red chilies, and onion. Add the red chili mixture to the potato-egg mash and combine it well. Finally, add mustard oil and continue mashing till the potatoes have a sticky texture. Garnish and serve with plain rice.
Read More: 11 Summer Iftar Drink Recipes to Fight Dehydration.
Mashed Almond Recipe (Badam Bhorta)
Ingredients
½ cup almonds, 4-5 chilies (dry roasted), ⅛ cup chopped onion, ½ teaspoon salt, and 2 tbsp mustard oil.
Preparations
First, fry the almonds. Wait until the almonds become cool. After cooling, grind them. Then add onion slices, pepper, and salt to the almond batter. Finally, pour mustard oil and mix the combination well again. Enjoy with rice.
Read More: The Ultimate Dining Experience: Dhaka Cloud Kitchen & Catering Services operating in Gulshan, Banani, Baridhara and Bashundhara
Mashed Lentil Recipe (Dal Bhorta)
Ingredients
1 cup Masoor Daal, 2 cloves garlic, ½ tsp turmeric powder, ⅛ cup chopped onions, 1 tsp salt (as needed), 1/8 cup coriander leaves (chopped), 2-3 tbsp mustard oil, and 3-4 dry red chili.
Preparations
First, wash and clean the lentils. Now boil 1 cup of lentils with 2 cups of water in a deep pan for 8-10 minutes. Skim off the foams that come on top of the lentils during cooking. After boiling, add the turmeric and garlic to the pan. When water decreases, minimize the heat and cover the pan. As soon as the water has completely evaporated, remove the pan from the stove.
Meanwhile, fry dry chilies in another pan, and when they become blackish-brown, remove the pan. Now mash the roasted chilies and put salt into them. Add chopped onion, coriander leaves, and mustard oil to the mixture of boiled lentils and mashed dried chili. Now mash the mixture thoroughly by hand. Add extra salt if needed. Enjoy the bhorta with rice.
Read More: Delicious Jackfruit Recipes to Try Out Today
Khulna reeling under severe heatwave
Khulna is reeling under severe heatwave. The highest temperature in the country has been prevailing in Khulna division for the last 12 days.
Even today (April 13, 2023), the highest temperature in the country is in this region. The high temperatures will continue for four to five days, according to the Met Office.
The temperature may rise during this time. And then there is the possibility of rain, Met Department officials said.
With the rise in temperature, the demand for electricity has also increased and day to day activities are being severely impacted.
Read more: Youth will lead ‘smart agriculture’ in Bangladesh: Minister Razzaque
Khulna city dwellers including pedestrians, low-income people, and students are easily exhausted when outdoor due to the excessive heat. Many stray dogs, cats and birds were seen going to the nearby drains or water bodies.
Due to the extreme heat, air conditioners, air coolers, and fans are running nonstop in offices, schools and universities. Fasting pedestrians were seen buying various cold drinks to quench their thirst after iftar.
Khorshed Alam, a daily wage earner working on Khanjahan Ali Road in Khulna city, said, “The temperature was mild at the start of Ramadan. It’s quite hot right now. Working while fasting is difficult.“I can't stand for too long in this scorching heat, but I still have to work though. Meanwhile, construction work on the road is going on for which dust is all around. All in all, it’s uncomfortable.”
Read More: Chief Justice opens up on limitations, ambitions of judiciary
Maqbul Hossain, a rickshaw puller standing in front of Shibbari Public Hall in the city, said, “The heat is unbearable. While riding the rickshaw, I’m completely soaked in sweat. Sometimes I get headaches. I’m becoming fatigued, and riding a rickshaw is exhausting,”
Firoz Ahmed Sabuj, a resident of Khalishpur Park intersection, said, “I take multiple showers during the day. And no one goes out without a reason. Furthermore, the fan must be running in the house at all times.”
CNG-run autorickshaw driver Mizanur Rahman said, “It is very difficult to drive in this weather. It's too hot. There is no other way, however, because of the daily household expenses, and the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr.”
Sumon, a sugarcane juice seller, said, “This unbearable heat has increased the demand for sugarcane juice. Besides, there is a great customer response during pre-Iftar.”
Read More: Social stigma is the main obstacle for female substance users’ treatment
Senior Meteorologist Md Amirul Azad, in-charge of Khulna Meteorological Office, said, “A moderate heatwave is sweeping over Khulna division. The maximum temperature in Khulna today is 39 degrees Celsius.”“Chuadanga recorded 39.7 degrees Celsius which is the highest temperature in the country today. Besides, temperatures were recorded at 39.4 degrees Celsius in Jashore, 39.5 degrees Celsius in Mongla and 38.6 degrees Celsius in Kushtia,” he said.
He said the high temperature will continue for four to five more days and may even go up a bit. However, there is a possibility of rain after April 17. There may be a storm in one or two places.In a span of 11 days, the demand for electricity has increased in 21 districts of the southern region, including Khulna, according to West Zone Power Distribution Company sources.
During the peak hours on March 31, the demand for electricity from WZPDC and Palli Bidyut Samity consumers was 1,618 MW. On April 11, the demand for electricity was 2,298 MW.
Read more: Students demand release of JnU student Khadija
WZPDC Superintending Engineer Shahidul Alam said, “The demand for electricity has increased in April compared to March. But even if the demand increases, our supply is fine. There is no shortage of electricity. Meanwhile, due to the rise in temperature, the working people of Khulna region are enduring a tough time.”
End/UNB/Corr/MB
Bangladesh: Heatwave may abate in 24 hrs
A mild heatwave sweeping through several districts of the country is likely to abate in the next 24 hours, the weather department has said.
“A mild heatwave sweeping through the districts of Dhaka, Tangail, Rajshahi, Bogura, Sirajgong, Netrokona,Srimangal and Sylhet may abate from some places,” the weather department said in its bulletin on Saturday morning.
The low formed over the west-central Bay and adjoining northwest Bay persists and is likely to intensify, according to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department.
Also read: Mild heatwave sweeps Bangladesh
Under its influence, a deep convection is taking place over the North Bay and adjoining areas. Deep convection refers to the thermally driven turbulent mixing that moves air parcels from the lower to the upper atmosphere.
Besides, light to moderate rains or thundershowers accompanied by temporary gusty winds and lightning flashes are likely to occur at many places over Dhaka, Khulna, Barishal, Chattogram and Sylhet divisions.
Rain may also occur at a few places over Rangpur, Rajshahi and Mymensingh divisions with moderately heavy to heavy falls at places over the country.
Also read: Mild heatwave sweeps Bangladesh
Day and night temperatures may fall slightly over the country during the period.
The maximum temperature in the last 24 hours till 6 am Saturday was recorded in Sylhet at 37.2 degrees.