The Situation:
Worldwide forecasts have shown temperatures reaching dangerous levels. The extreme temperatures may lead to an increased risk of wildfires and potential health crises.
Over the past month, several countries have been impacted by the rising temperatures:
Spain and Portugal: High temperatures have been blamed at least 1,000 deaths.
France: Two large wildfires in France consumed pine forests for 6 days and caused the evacuation of over 16,200 people.
United Kingdom: A red warning was issued due to the extreme temperatures.
China: 84 cities across the country issued the highest level red alert due to temperatures reaching over 104 degrees F (40 degrees C)
Mexico and US: Temperatures increased the risk of heatstroke and power outages.
Possible Effects:
Extreme temperatures
Cancelled, delayed, or rerouted flights
Dehydration, which can occur quickly
Hyperthermia
Power outages
Wildfires and subsequent evacuations
Mitigating Measures to Apply:
Closely monitor the local situation (local and social media, embassy, POC at the destination, etc.) prior to any travel.
Prepare for delays, closures, and cancellations of road, rail, and air travel
Allow extra time to travel to/from destination and accommodations.
Keep extra bottled water in lodging and when out in public
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water; Avoid alcohol
Watch for signs of dehydration and other heat related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and strokes
Limit outdoor exposure as much as possible, especially during the hottest times of day
Dress in light clothing
Call medical personnel in the event of emergency
DISCLAIMER and Hold Harmless Disclaimer: LSDS™ gathers information from multiple sources and offers insight and perspective to travelers. Sources cannot be validated for accuracy in every instance. Travelers assume all risk associated with their travel and are responsible for the decisions associated with travel and for their own safety. Users of this reference document agree, to hold harmless LSDS™ (LLC) its employees and clients associated with any risk or injury incurred during travel.