Authorities urge caution from citizens as heatwave looms over Jordan

Jordan's Public Security Directorate (PSD) has called on citizens to follow preventative guidelines to avoid the dangers of sunstroke, heat exhaustion, and other emergencies. 

The warning comes as temperatures are expected to rise in the coming days, according to forecasts.

The directorate stressed the importance of avoiding direct sun exposure, drinking plenty of fluids,especially water, and wearing light, loose-fitting clothing to stay safe and prevent heat exhaustion.

The PSD also emphasized the need to never leave children unattended in vehicles, particularly while shopping. It also warned against leaving flammable materials like sanitizers, perfumes, and other sources of ignition inside cars, as they pose a risk when temperatures rise.

The directorate highlighted the importance of wearing protective head coverings, taking adequate rest periods, especially for those whose work requires long hours in direct sunlight, and supervising children to prevent them from playing in open areas during peak heat.

The PSD urged citizens to avoid causes of fire, such as throwing cigarette butts near dry grass or trees and failing to fully extinguish fires after picnics. It also advised against overloading electrical outlets when operating air conditioners and fans to prevent short circuits or fires.

A hot to extremely hot air mass is set to approach Jordan on Thursday, Aug. 7, leading to a noticeable rise in temperatures that will exceed seasonal averages by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius, reaching more than 40 degrees in certain areas, according to ArabiaWeather.