July 15th, 2024

Coping with extreme heat without air conditioning

In a world facing extreme heat, Dr. Gulrez Shah Azhar shares coping strategies from the Global South. Tips include staying hydrated, consuming electrolytes, taking cold showers, finding cool spots indoors, using architectural designs for airflow, wearing light-colored clothing, and adjusting schedules to cooler hours. Sharing community tips is encouraged.

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Coping with extreme heat without air conditioning

In a world facing unprecedented heat, Dr. Gulrez Shah Azhar shares strategies from the Global South on coping with extreme temperatures without air conditioning. Growing up in India, where many can't afford AC units, he emphasizes staying hydrated, consuming electrolyte-rich drinks like sugarcane juice, and eating light snacks. Taking cold showers, finding cool spots indoors, and utilizing architectural designs like jaali for airflow are recommended. Additionally, using swamp coolers, wearing light-colored clothing, and covering the head or neck can help manage heat. Avoiding the noonday sun, embracing shade, and adjusting work schedules to cooler hours are also suggested. Dr. Azhar highlights the importance of community tips and traditions in dealing with heat, encouraging sharing of personal experiences via email for potential feature on NPR.org. By combining various strategies and being mindful of heat-related illnesses like heatstroke, individuals can effectively cope with extreme heat even without air conditioning.

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How to stay cool in extreme heat without air conditioning

How to stay cool in extreme heat without air conditioning

In regions like India, coping with heatwaves without access to air conditioning is a challenge. Strategies include staying hydrated, eating light, taking cold showers, finding cool spots, using architectural techniques, swamp coolers, and wearing light clothing. Generational practices help individuals manage extreme heat, with a reminder from Dr. Gulrez Shah Azhar to be cautious of heat-related illnesses.

Link Icon 3 comments
By @foxyv - 7 months
I think the most promising method in humid areas would be geothermal cooling. For instance, in Phoenix Arizona right now it is about 40C. However, about 15 feet underground it is about 26C. In Shreveport Louisiana it is about 34C at 45% humidity, but the ground temperature is 19C.

Geothermal cooling and basements just make so much sense for keeping cool in killing temperatures when electricity isn't available.

By @sriram_malhar - 7 months
The suggestion of swamp coolers and wet curtains is only useful in dry areas. They make life miserable in humid places.