August M
Heading out to enjoy the summer weather often brings visions of sunny beaches and cool waters.
But nature can introduce unexpected surprises. Because of shifting conditions, travelers heading out this season are finding that threats can emerge from both the sea and the sky, reports The Mirror.
Danger below surface
A strange creature is causing major alarm across Europe. According to The Mirror, British tourists are facing urgent warnings about the silver-cheeked pufferfish, an invasive species that migrated from the Indian Ocean. It entered the Mediterranean through the Suez Canal.
The fish has razor-sharp teeth that can sever flesh. Earlier this year, a swimming resort near Athens became the site of a totally unprovoked attack on a Greek woman.
Experts say the fish can become aggressive when handled. Nota Peristeraki from the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research spoke to the Telegraph about the issue, with the Express reporting on the details. “Some attacks have happened when people have tried to feed or touch the fish. There have been a couple of cases of people losing a finger or a toe,” Peristeraki said.
If an injury occurs, the Greek Red Cross has released specific first aid advice. Swimmers should clean the wound with soap and water before applying steady pressure to stop the bleeding. Medical help is required immediately.
Scorching summer skies
Dangers are not just lurking under the waves. A massive heatwave is currently sweeping through Europe, pushing temperatures up to 44°C in several countries.
Nations are taking extreme measures. Sky reported that France is banning alcohol at state events to lower health risks, while Germany has issued emergency warnings as temperatures climb into the high thirties. Portugal, Spain, and Italy are also bracing for intense heat and severe storms.
The United Kingdom is also roasting. The Met Office expects local temperatures to peak around 38°C, triggering an amber heat alert from the United Kingdom Health Security Agency.
The night will bring no relief. Tom Crabtree, a deputy chief forecaster for the Met Office, warned that the oppressive heat will continue long after sunset. “As well as very high daytime temperatures, there will be consecutive nights where temperatures do not drop below 20°C, which is called a Tropical Night. This will make it very hard for people to recover from the daytime heat, exacerbating the heat stress impacts,” Crabtree said.
Sources: The Mirror, Telegraph, Express, Sky, Met Office, UKHSA
