Jakarta Provincial Government Urges Residents to Protect Health Amid Extreme Hot Weather
The Jakarta Provincial Government (Pemprov DKI Jakarta) has urged the public to be vigilant and implement preventive steps to avoid health risks amid the extreme hot weather currently affecting the capital.
This appeal was delivered by Chico Hakim, Special Staff to the Governor and Deputy Governor of Jakarta for Public Communication, on Thursday (19/3) in Jakarta.
“We understand the complaints from residents who are feeling it directly, including discomfort when engaging in outdoor activities,” said Chico, as reported by Antara.
Chico continued that the hot weather in Jakarta can persist until the afternoon. This significantly impacts vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, children, outdoor workers, and individuals with certain health conditions.
Governor of DKI Jakarta Pramono Anung Wibowo, according to Chico, has also reminded the public based on forecasts from the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), which indicate the potential for extreme hot weather in the coming days.
Nevertheless, Pramono has asked residents not to worry excessively and to remain focused on preventive measures to avoid health risks during the extreme hot weather.
Pemprov DKI Jakarta is also continuously coordinating with BMKG for daily monitoring and early warnings. Additionally, weather developments are always monitored so that anticipatory steps can be taken quickly and accurately.
Here are some recommended steps to cope with extreme hot weather:
Increase fluid intake by drinking at least 8-10 glasses of plain water per day and avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages that accelerate dehydration.
Limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours (10:00-15:00 WIB), and use protection such as hats, umbrellas, light-coloured clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30.
Pay attention to vulnerable groups such as the elderly, toddlers, outdoor workers, and those with chronic illnesses by ensuring they stay in cool, shaded places.
Recognise heat danger symptoms, such as severe headaches, nausea, vomiting, extreme fatigue, dry skin, and seizures. Seek immediate medical help if these symptoms appear by taking the patient to the nearest health facility or calling 112 for emergency assistance.
Coordinate across agencies such as BPBD, the Health Service, administrative city mayors, and district heads throughout DKI Jakarta to strengthen dissemination through neighbourhood units (RT/RW), including health monitoring at community health centres (Puskesmas) and integrated health posts (Posyandu).
“We also invite all Jakarta residents to remind each other and maintain health together,” said Chico.