"Above 40°C, Electric Fans Can Be Dangerous"... What Is WHO's Unexpected Recommendation?

It is truly hot these days.

The daytime high in Yangsan, South Gyeongsang Province, hit 42°C (108°F), breaking record highs, and a nationwide heat wave continues.

However, when temperatures exceed 40°C (104°F), electric fans can actually make the heat worse.

Let's take a look at the World Health Organization's (WHO) recommendations.

First, the WHO emphasized that electric fans should be used when temperatures are below 40°C (104°F).

While fan breeze cools the body by accelerating sweat evaporation, when the air temperature exceeds skin temperature, it blows hot air instead, which can actually raise body temperature.

Drinking enough water is also important.

The WHO recommends drinking 1 cup of water per hour and at least 2 to 3 liters of water a day.

It also suggested that wearing light, loose clothing, taking cool showers, or using wet towels are effective ways to lower body temperature.

The WHO estimates that extreme heat has caused an average of 489,000 deaths worldwide each year from 2000 to 2019.

As climate change increases the frequency and intensity of heat waves, the organization emphasized that individual adherence to prevention guidelines is more important than ever.
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.