How to survive the current Nairobi heat

The World Meteorological Organisation's recent report declaring the past month as the hottest January on record, has left many concerned as to whether Nairobi is currently experiencing heat waves.

The sun has been scorching so hard the past few weeks and Kenyans have taken their complaints about the high temperatures online.

"You guys feeling this heat? Nairobi is an oven. Been taking cold showers but still sweating like hell at night," one X user, Dennis Kioko wrote.

"The sun rays hitting the ground in Nairobi are something else... The worst is heat during the day and the worst heat during the night!" Another Kenyan on X, Juma G wrote.

Here are five strategies to help you survive Nairobi heat;

1. Increase your water intake and always carry a bottle with you to serve as a reminder to stay hydrated.

The body loses a lot of water in hot temperatures and carrying a water bottle acts as a visual cue to hydrate.

2. Avoid alcohol. Alcoholic drinks are diuretic, which means that they cause increased urine production and can lead to dehydration.

In the current hot weather, you're already at risk of losing more fluids through sweating, so consuming alcohol worsens this and can quickly lead to dehydration.

3. Wear loose and light clothes. Wearing clothing composed of fabrics like cotton and linen is advised by experts because they all allow for breathability and moisture evaporation in hot weather.

4. Take cool showers. Avoid using extremely cold water when taking a shower as this can shock your system and may not be suitable for everyone.

5. Wear sunscreen and eat lots of hydrating foods. Sunscreen protects your skin from the harmful effects of UV rays from the sun.

Hydrating foods are foods that have a high water content and can help you stay hydrated. These include foods such as cucumber, watermelon, tomatoes, spinach and cabbage among others.

As you wait for the temperatures to steady and go back to normal, consider doing these things to survive the current hot weather. 

The Kenya Meteorological Department on Tuesday reported that Kenyans should brace for temperatures over 30 degrees in several counties this week.

"This week, High average daytime temperatures > 30°C expected in various counties: Turkana, Samburu, Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Isiolo, Garissa, Tana River, Lamu, Kilifi, Mombasa, Kwale, Taita Taveta, Kajiado, Makueni, Kitui, Machakos, Nairobi, Kiambu, Embu, Laikipia, Baringo," the Kenya Met Department wrote on X.

"High daytime temperatures exceeding 30°C expected in various counties, while some parts of certain counties may experience low nighttime temperatures below 10°C. Stay prepared for fluctuating weather conditions this week!"