Heat Wave & Management
An extended period of extreme heat, often paired with high humidity — silent, invisible, and one of the most underestimated hazards in the Caribbean.
What is a Heat Wave?
Heat kills by pushing the human body beyond its limits. In extreme heat and high humidity — when the air has moisture and feels sticky — the body must work extra hard to maintain a normal temperature and keep itself comfortable.
A heat wave is an extended period of extreme heat, often accompanied by high humidity. In Nevis, heat waves overlap with the dry season and amplify the risk of drought, wildfire, and dehydration-related illness.
Heat is one of the deadliest weather hazards in the world — usually because people don't take it seriously until they collapse. The most vulnerable: the elderly, infants, outdoor workers, athletes, and anyone with chronic illness.
Warning Signs & What to Do
Heat illness moves through stages — from cramps and exhaustion to heat stroke. Recognise the symptoms early and act fast.
Heat Exhaustion
Heavy sweating, weakness, cool clammy skin, weak pulse, fainting, vomiting.
What to do:
- Move to a cool place
- Loosen clothing
- Sip water slowly
- Apply cool wet cloths
- If symptoms worsen — seek medical help
Heat Stroke
High body temperature (40°C+), hot dry skin, rapid strong pulse, confusion, loss of consciousness.
What to do:
- Call 911 IMMEDIATELY
- Move person to a cooler place
- Lower body temperature with cool cloths or a cool bath
- Do NOT give fluids if unconscious
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Brain damage and death can occur within minutes. Cool the person as fast as possible while waiting for paramedics.
What to Do
Before
Get the house and the family ready before the temperature climbs.
- Build an emergency kit (water, electrolytes, sun cream, hats)
- Make a family communication plan and a check-in time for elderly relatives
- Keep shades closed on windows that get morning or afternoon sun
- Check air conditioner filters and back-up battery for fans
During
Stay cool, stay hydrated, stay aware of how your body feels.
- Stay inside an air-conditioned area as much as possible
- Drink lots of water — your body's own air conditioning!
- Wear loose-fitting clothes in light colours (dark clothes absorb sun rays)
- Wear a hat with a wide brim to protect your face and head
- Avoid strenuous activity in the hottest part of the day (10am – 4pm)
- Never leave children, the elderly or pets in a parked vehicle — even briefly
After
Recovery takes longer than you think.
- Don't eat any food that was in the refrigerator if the power was out for more than a day
- Continue drinking water — your body stays dehydrated for hours after the heat eases
- Check on elderly neighbours and anyone who lives alone
- Report any heat-related health emergencies to 911 immediately
Words to Know
Drinking sugary drinks, alcohol or very cold beverages during a heat wave can make dehydration worse — not better. Plain water and electrolyte drinks are the safest bet.
Heat Index Scale
The heat index combines temperature and humidity to show what the air feels like — and how dangerous it is for the body.
Caution · 27–32°C
Fatigue possible with prolonged exposure and physical activity. Stay hydrated.
Extreme Caution · 32–41°C
Heat exhaustion possible with prolonged exposure. Limit outdoor activity.
Danger · 41–54°C
Heat stroke probable with prolonged exposure. Avoid all outdoor activity.