Kilkenny holidaymakers warned to be careful during Northern European heatwave

By COLIN BARTLEY

AN URGENT warning has been issued to Kilkenny people travelling to Europe this week, with the continent is set to bake in a heatwave that could break all temperature records.

The Irish Travel Agents Association (ITAA) and Asthma Society of Ireland (ASI) issued the warnings, and advice, to Kilkenny holidaymakers travelling to Northern Europe as temperatures are set to hit 40 degrees.

The worst of the high temperatures are expected to affect Northern France as well as parts of Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands, and people are being told to follow the advice of local authorities.

Pat Dawson, CEO of the ITAA, said, “Our members are advising holidaymakers staying in affected areas to stay hydrated throughout their stay and to avoid direct sunlight during the hottest periods of the day.

“We are encouraging all travellers to follow the advice of the local authorities which are implementing measures to tackle the extreme heat.”

While the ASI is warning Kilkenny asthma and hayfever sufferers to be prepared and take precautions while travelling.

Sarah O’Connor, CEO of the ASI, said: “Hayfever symptoms are capable of escalating an asthma attack, which in some cases can be fatal. Asthma deaths are rising in Ireland, with one person now dying every six days as a result of their asthma.

“In addition, people with hayfever experience symptoms which really compromise their quality of life and ability to enjoy the summer months.”

“Up to 80% of people with asthma also have hayfever, it is important to get both your hayfever and asthma under control to have an enjoyable holiday,” Ms O’ Connor said.

Image courtesy of Accuweather