High temperature./FILE
In the wake of the intense heat wave sweeping across Kenya, many Kenyans are struggling with sunburns, dehydration, and the risk of long-term health problems.
Experts warn that the effects of the sun go far beyond discomfort and, as such, urge practical measures to reduce risks.
According to Dermatologist Caroline Mwatha, frequent and prolonged exposure to the sun can lead to serious skin conditions, including squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma, and melanoma.
She notes that climate change has eroded the ozone layer, making the sun’s rays more penetrating and dangerous than in previous years.
“Seek shade whenever possible, wear wide-brimmed hats, and protect skin with oils such as coconut oil or petroleum jelly when sunscreen is unaffordable,” she says.
For those who do get sunburned, she recommends resting away from the sun, avoiding soaps that can irritate the skin, and using soothing oils.
Severe cases may require low-potency medicated creams to reduce inflammation. She also warns about “sun poisoning,” a condition caused by heat and dehydration that can result in dizziness, fainting, and other complications.
“Long-term, consistent sun exposure can increase the risk of squamous cell carcinoma within about ten years, while intermittent exposure over decades raises the risk of melanoma,” Dr. Mwatha adds. “Even if your skin seems resilient, repeated sun exposure is dangerous.”
On his part, nutritionist Henry Ngethe underscores the importance of hydration and nutrition in coping with the heat.
“You lose fluids through sweating, so you need at least eight to ten glasses of water daily. Juices and sodas do not replace water and can worsen dehydration,” he cautions.
He also advises limiting caffeine intake, as it increases fluid loss, and focusing on whole, unrefined foods to sustain energy.
“In high temperatures, your metabolism rises due to sweating, so your body needs nutrient-rich foods to function properly. Incorporating fruits and vegetables helps replenish lost micronutrients and maintain energy levels,” he notes.
However, the Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) has dismissed a heat wave alert circulating on social media, saying it did not originate from the agency.
KMD noted that the high temperatures currently being experienced across parts of the country are normal for the January–March period.
In a statement on Monday, the Department urged Kenyans to ignore the information on the heat wave alert being passed across on social media.
“KMD would like to clarify that the heat wave alert currently circulating on social media is not an official communication from KMD. We are aware of the message and urge members of the public to ignore it,” the department said.
“As shown in KMD temperature climatology, January, February, and March are typically the hottest months in Kenya, and the warmer-than-average temperatures currently being experienced are normal for this period and consistent with the forecast."
KMD said it will continue monitoring conditions and issue advisories when necessary through its official channels, urging the public not to share unverified weather information.
In its latest weekly outlook for January 27 to February 2, the department said predominantly sunny and dry conditions are expected in most regions, with isolated light rainfall likely in the Highlands east and west of the Rift Valley, the Rift Valley, the Lake Victoria Basin, the Coast, and the southeastern lowlands.
Average daytime temperatures above 30°C are forecast across the Coast, North-eastern and North-western Kenya, and parts of the southeastern lowlands, Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley, and Western Kenya.
Some locations in the Central Highlands, the North and Central Rift Valley, Western Kenya, and areas near Mt. Kilimanjaro may record nighttime temperatures below 10°C.
