The Latvian Environment, Geology and Meteorology Centre has issued an orange weather warning for extreme heat across Latvia over the coming days.
On Saturday afternoon, hot weather is expected in many parts of the country, with air temperatures rising to twenty-seven to thirty degrees Celsius. On Sunday and Monday, much of Latvia is forecast to experience very intense heat, with temperatures climbing to thirty-one to thirty-five degrees Celsius.
According to the warning, extreme heat places additional strain on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.
The risk of heat-related health problems increases for the entire population during periods of very high temperatures, but particular caution is advised for older people, infants and individuals with chronic health conditions.
Residents are advised to drink more fluids than usual, ventilate their homes during the night and keep curtains or blinds closed during the day to reduce indoor temperatures.
People should avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, limit strenuous physical activity and wear light-coloured, loose-fitting and breathable clothing.
Pet owners are also urged to ensure that animals have continuous access to fresh drinking water.
The authorities also warn that very hot weather typically encourages more people to spend time near lakes, rivers and the sea, increasing the risk of accidents. Anyone who is overheated should not enter cold water suddenly, as a rapid change in body temperature can trigger cardiac arrhythmias and, in extreme cases, sudden death.
Read also: Zelensky orders 40-day operation aimed at pressuring Russia to end the war