Orange weather warning has been issued in North Macedonia for Friday, as temperatures are to reach up to 40C. Authorities call on citizens to abide by heat wave safety measures.
It is recommended that the citizens, especially pregnant women and people over 60-years-old be given day off, and children to avoid outdoor activities between 11 am to 5 pm.
According to the National Hydrometeorological Service report, it will be sunny and very hot on Friday, accompanied by weak to moderate northwest winds. Isolated thundershowers are likely to occur in the afternoon. Lows will range from 14C to 23C, and highs between 33C and 41C. UV index will be 9.
The thermometer in the capital city Skopje is expected to hit 39 degrees Celsius.
In the coming days, the units of local self-government, the Red Cross and the Social Work Centres will be taking measures to accommodate homeless people.
The Ministry of Health calls on citizens to abide in the next days by heat wave safety measures.
Citizens are advised to spend as much time in air-conditioned spaces and take lots of breaks in the shade if they have to spend time outside, as well as wear light clothing, sunglasses and hats to avoid direct sun exposure.
Wearing sunscreen with a high SPF, eating less and mostly fruits and vegetables, drinking water and avoiding alcoholic beverages is also recommended, the Health Ministry said in a report.
Before driving in the heat, vehicles have to be aired out.
Due to the heat wave there’s also an increased risk of food poisoning. Authorities ask people to wash thoroughly fruits and vegetables before eating and cook all other foods.
