Heat wave
Heat wave
A heat wave is a period of excessively hot weather, which may be accompanied by high humidity, especially in oceanic climate countries. While definitions vary, a heat wave is usually measured relative to the usual weather in the area and relative to normal temperatures for the season.
Pronunciation
- IPA: /hiːt weɪv/
Etymology
The term "heat wave" is derived from the consecutive days of hot weather experienced. The term "wave" is used metaphorically, as it is not a physical wave but a widespread phenomenon.
Definition
A heat wave is a prolonged period of excessively hot weather, which may be accompanied by high humidity. The World Meteorological Organization defines a heat wave as five or more consecutive days during which the daily maximum temperature surpasses the average maximum temperature by 5 °C (9 °F) or more.
Related terms
- Heat stroke: A condition caused by your body overheating, usually as a result of prolonged exposure to or physical exertion in high temperatures.
- Heat exhaustion: A severe form of heat illness, manifests as malaise, nausea, and fatigue. It is caused by the loss of body fluids and salts after being exposed to heat for a prolonged period of time.
- Heat cramps: Muscle spasms that result from loss of large amount of salt and water through exercise. Heat cramps are part of a collection of heat-related illnesses.
- Heat rash: A skin irritation caused by excessive sweating during hot, humid weather.
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Heat wave
- Wikipedia's article - Heat wave
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