Al Jazeera issues protocol for heatstroke management as global temperatures breach records
The broadcaster’s latest visual explainer defines heatstroke as a critical medical event occurring when body temperature exceeds 40C, urging immediate intervention to prevent organ failure.
Al Jazeera has released a comprehensive visual explainer and practical guide addressing the management of heat-related illnesses as summer temperatures soar across various global regions, with some areas shattering all-time heatwave records. The publication, issued on 24 June 2026, provides institutional advice on mitigating health risks associated with extreme heat, focusing specifically on the prevention and treatment of heatstroke.
The guide defines heatstroke, also referred to as sunstroke, as a severe medical condition where the human body’s internal temperature exceeds 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). It warns that if the condition is not treated immediately, it can lead to organ failure, brain damage, and potentially life-threatening outcomes. The publication identifies heat exhaustion and heatstroke as the primary health concerns during periods of sustained high temperatures.
To assist the public in minimising risk, the article outlines ten specific tips for staying cool. It further details immediate first-aid steps to lower a patient’s body temperature while awaiting emergency medical aid. These steps are designed to be followed until professional help arrives, particularly for individuals exhibiting symptoms such as confusion, altered mental state, rapid heartbeat, rapid breathing, high body temperature, dehydration, or nausea.
For households without access to air conditioning or those seeking to reduce energy costs, the guide offers technical methods for creating DIY cooling systems. It describes constructing a cooler using a styrofoam cooler, ice, and a fan. While the source notes that this method may not reduce humidity, it can provide temporary relief during the hottest summer days.
Additionally, the publication advises utilising natural breezes as an energy-efficient cooling strategy. This involves strategically opening and closing specific windows and doors to direct airflow where it is needed most. The guide emphasises that these practical measures are crucial for maintaining safety as global temperatures continue to rise and heatwave records are broken.
