As temperatures are set to rise again, with highs of 39 degrees Celsius possible next week, many are seeking ways to stay cool. However, a US doctor has warned that using an electric fan might not be the best solution.
Doctor's Warning on Electric Fans
Dr Trisha Pasricha, in a TikTok video, explained: "In a heatwave, electric fans do not cool you down. All they do is trick your brain into believing that you're cooler." She noted that fans stimulate thermal sensors on the skin, signaling the brain to reduce sweating, which can lead to heat exhaustion as the core body temperature remains high.
Effective Cooling Methods
Dr Pasricha recommended using handheld misting fans or placing icy towels around the neck. She emphasized: "The solution is water. Get yourself one of those little handheld fans that sprays mist all over you." She added that wetting the skin first allows evaporation to lower body temperature effectively.
According to her, research shows that a fan combined with wet skin can reduce heat strain even in temperatures up to 46 degrees Celsius and cuts dehydration by about 50 percent.
Upcoming Heatwave Forecast
The Met Office expects the peak of the heatwave on Thursday, July 9, with London and Berkshire facing the highest temperatures. Net Weather maps indicate highs of 38 degrees in Hertfordshire and Gloucestershire. Tony Wisson, Met Office deputy chief forecaster, said: "Toward the weekend, high pressure will continue to build in across most of the UK... This will lead to more settled, warm or very warm conditions for many."
Health Service Impact
The UK Health Security Agency has warned that the hot spell could affect health and social care services, following critical incidents during the previous heatwave.
