It’s hot. It’s sweaty. It’s [drum roll] wet season!
Now, the wet season isn’t everyone’s favourite time of the year, but with the additional humidity in the air there are some perks.
Some anecdotal evidence shows that people can notice:
- Hair and nails growing stronger and longer in wet season
- Reduced pain in body from diseases like arthritis
- Reduced skin inflammation and can ease sores or irritated skin caused by eczema or psoriasis
- Eased respiratory issues
And the downsides? Well, you can’t really go swimming for fear of the Irukandji jellyfish sting (which can be fatal), sea lice (which are seriously itchy) and those pesky sharks that come very close to the shore awaiting turtles. Oh, but that’s another perk: it’s turtle season! We get to witness a miraculous part of nature right on our doorstep.
There are pros and cons to the wet season – such is life – but how do we ensure we stay cooler and overall more content with the heat?
Read on for our tips.
1. Hydration station
As we will lose a lot more water from our bodies by sweating (it’s natural, don’t make that face), we need to make sure we’re replacing lost water frequently.
Try:
- Having a bottle of water close by at all times (even better if it’s an insulated vessel).
- Drink water even when you’re not thirsty
- Prioritise water over coffee, tea and sugary drinks (which don’t even hydrate)
2. Be aware of signs of heat-related illness
Heard the phrase, “You’ve had too much sun”? Well, you can have too much sun and heat. Your body might not be able to regulate itself in the heat, especially if you’re not hydrating or seeking shaded areas.
Being caught out means being very uncomfortable, and could see you taking a trip to the hospital. Be aware of things like:
- Heat stroke
- Heat exhaustion
- Heat rash
- Heat cramps
For any of the above, you’ll begin to notice you just feel slightly off. Lethargic, slurred speech, feeling faint, noticing red bumps on your skin (this is specific to heat rash), sweating profusely, confusion and high body temperature. Not fun.
Sitting in the shade, drinking a lot of water and cooling down by dipping into a pool or having a cold shower will see you through to the dry season.
3. Stay cool, man
Of course, trying to stay cool if you’re outside most of the time in the wet season might seem impossible. But, there are things you can do:
- Wear light and loose fitting clothing
- Limit physical activity
- Wear sunscreen and reapply throughout the day
- Bring a gazebo with you if you work or spend time outside
- Utilise a shaded area for example under a tree
- Head to places with aircon for a break such as a supermarket or shopping centre
And, if you’re inside:
- Reduce the use of ovens and stoves as this will heat up the house
- Utilise aircon and fans
- Keep blinds and curtains drawn during the day to block out the sun
- Spend time inside
4. Become an early-riser or a late-to-bed…er
Exercising outside can feel so much better than exercising in a cramped gym. Obsessing over a simulation of a pavement while we run on the treadmill rather than an actual, well, pavement.
There’s nothing quite like running on the beach or walking your dogs, but during the wet season, these activities should be restricted to early morning 4.30am – 6.30am or evening time 5.00pm – late.
Whether you’re exercising or not, getting out in the fresh air is important. But being out in the heat of the day will do more damage than good, unless it’s hot yoga…
Wake up earlier, enjoy the cooler part of the day, or save your activities for the evening. Routines need to adapt to the weather.
5. Be cyclone aware
Living in this part of the world brings environmental risks like cyclones along with the heat and storms. We’ve had devastating floods.
Most people think living in this area means just a little ‘weird weather’ but it can get intense.
To be cyclone aware, ensure you’re watching out for any important updates from the Bureau of Meteorology (that’s BOM to me and you). Then, be cyclone ready:
- Take place in the safest part of your home
- Tie down or remove anything that could fly in the air and cause damage
- Evacuate an area that is deemed unsafe
- Access support from local services such as police
- Stock up on food and water
- Prepare for the power to go out
- Remain calm
Cyclones are extremely serious, so being cautious and prepared during the wet season is critical.
We hope this guide has helped you think about your wet season survival. Now, drink that water and wear your hat!