Why Temperatures Rise During Summer ?
In summer, temperatures rise primarily because of increased solar radiation caused by the Earth’s axial tilt.
This tilt directs more direct sunlight towards the hemisphere experiencing summer, intensifying the heat. Longer daylight hours during this season also contribute, allowing more time for the sun to warm the Earth’s surface.
Atmospheric circulation patterns often create high-pressure systems that result in clear skies and prolonged sunshine, further enhancing heating.
Additionally, surfaces like asphalt and rooftops absorb and retain more heat, while urban areas, with their dense infrastructure and human activities, tend to trap heat, exacerbating local temperatures.
These factors combine to create the characteristic warmth associated with summer months in different regions around the world.
What are the risks of high temperatures ?
Rising temperatures during summer can have various effects on the human body. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures and humidity can lead to several heat-related illnesses
High temperatures during summer can lead to serious health risks such as :
1. Dehydration:
Dehydration is the most prominent effect of rising temperatures.
The body responds to heat transfer by producing sweat, which in turn absorbs heat and evaporates in the skin surface, and although
it is beneficial, it results in losing a lot of salts and minerals in case of heavy sweating, and their loss disrupts body homeostasis, which leads to dangerous complications.
2. Heatstroke:
A life-threatening condition where the body’s temperature regulation fails, leading to a high body temperature (above 103°F or 40°C).
Symptoms include confusion, agitation, hot and dry skin (no sweating), rapid heartbeat, and possibly loss of consciousness.
Heatstroke requires immediate medical attention.
3. Heat Cramps:
Muscle pains and spasms that typically occur in the abdomen, arms, or legs due to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.
4. Heat Exhaustion :
Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, headache, and rapid heartbeat.
It occurs when the body loses too much water and salt through sweating.
5. Exacerbation of Medical Conditions:
High temperatures can worsen certain medical conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, and diabetes.
6. Sunburn:
Overexposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause sunburn, which is characterized by red, painful skin that may blister.
When does summer start ?
Summer starts around June 20th or 21st in the Northern Hemisphere and around December 21st or 22nd in the Southern Hemisphere.
It ends around September 22nd or 23rd in the Northern Hemisphere and around March 20th or 21st in the Southern Hemisphere .
In conclusion, rising temperatures during summer can have significant impacts on the human body, leading to heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
It’s crucial to stay hydrated, seek shade, and take breaks in cooler environments to mitigate these risks,. Taking proactive measures can help everyone enjoy the summer season safely.