Lagos Heatwave: Residents Struggle With Extreme Heat and Power Outages
Yesterday was one of the hottest days I have experienced in Lagos this year. Honestly, the heat was unbearable.
By 2 p.m., my room felt like an oven. There had been no electricity since morning, my rechargeable fan had stopped working, and even my phone was hot to the touch. I was sweating inside my shirt, and finding a way to cool down became a serious challenge.
How the Heat Is Affecting Small Businesses
I went outside to buy some sachet water, and the woman selling pure water on my street told me something surprising.
According to her, since the hot weather started, she has been selling between seven and eight bags of sachet water every day. Before the heat became this intense, she usually sold only about three bags daily.
It makes sense. When the weather becomes extremely hot, people naturally look for cold water and other ways to stay hydrated.
As for me, I bought three sachets of water and poured one over my head to cool down. That was how I managed to get some relief.
Heat Is Not Something to Take for Granted
By evening, something frightening happened. My neighbour reportedly felt faint while spending the day inside his shop without a fan. People had to help him outside to get some fresh air and cool down.
That experience reminded me that extreme heat is more than just an uncomfortable weather condition. It can cause serious health problems, especially when someone becomes dehydrated or cannot cool down properly.
Heat exhaustion can cause heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, headaches, nausea and faintness. If someone becomes confused, collapses, has a seizure or loses consciousness, it could be heatstroke, which is a medical emergency. Seek urgent medical attention.
What My Nurse Cousin Told Me About Staying Hydrated
Later, I spoke with my cousin, who is a nurse, about the heat. She reminded me that drinking enough water is important, even when the weather makes us uncomfortable.
However, there is no single fixed number of sachets that everyone must drink every three hours. Water needs depend on factors such as body size, activity level, health conditions and how much someone is sweating. Drink water regularly and respond to your body's needs. Avoid forcing yourself to drink excessive amounts.
She also advised wearing light, breathable clothing and avoiding unnecessary exposure to direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day.
How I Am Trying to Survive the Heat in Lagos
Since the heat became unbearable, I have started making a few changes to my daily routine:
- Bathing before sleeping: I take a cool bath before going to bed to feel more comfortable.
- Opening the windows: I open my windows when outdoor conditions allow better airflow.
- Avoiding afternoon cooking: I no longer cook inside my room during the hottest part of the day.
- Drinking water regularly: I make sure I have drinking water nearby throughout the day.
- Wearing lighter clothes: I try to wear loose-fitting clothes that allow my body to breathe.
I also tried placing a small bowl of water under my bed, hoping it would make the room cooler. However, I cannot confirm that it actually reduces room temperature. Proper ventilation, shade and access to a fan or cooler space are more useful ways to manage indoor heat.
What to Do When the Heat Becomes Too Much
If your room becomes extremely hot, try to move to a cooler or shaded place whenever possible. Reduce strenuous activities during the hottest hours, drink water regularly, wear lightweight clothing and use cool wet cloths on your skin.
If you experience dizziness, unusual weakness, nausea or heavy sweating, stop what you are doing and move somewhere cooler. If symptoms worsen or you suspect heatstroke, seek emergency medical help immediately.
How Are You Coping With the Heat in Lagos?
Honestly, the combination of extreme heat and electricity outages is becoming difficult for many residents.
In my area of Agege, we have reportedly been without electricity for two days. Imagine trying to sleep in this kind of weather without a working fan.
I would love to hear from other Lagos residents.
- Is there electricity in your area?
- How are you managing the heat at night?
- Do you use a rechargeable fan, standing fan or air conditioner?
- What practical methods are helping you stay cool?
Share your experience in the comments. Let's learn from one another because this heat is not a joke!
Disclaimer: This article shares a personal experience and general heat-safety information. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Seek medical attention for serious or worsening symptoms.
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