Heatwave triggers nearly 250,000 emergency calls across Uzbekistan

During the recent scorching heatwave in early July, Uzbekistan’s emergency medical services received a total of 247,459 calls, according to a report released on July 7 by the Ministry of Health’s press service.

According to the national hydrometeorological service, extremely hot air masses moved into Uzbekistan from the south between July 2 and 5, leading to an intense heatwave across the country. In some regions, temperatures soared up to 46°C (114.8°F).

Dr. Abduvoitjon Gafurov, Director of the Republican Emergency Medical Center, emphasized that during extreme heat, special attention must be paid to vulnerable groups — particularly people with chronic illnesses under dispensary observation, young children, pregnant women, and the elderly. These individuals should be kept under close medical supervision and provided with emergency care when necessary.

“To break down the figures: during last week’s abnormal heatwave, we received 247,459 emergency calls across the republic. Of these, 172,676 were urgent cases, while 65,163 were related to chronic health conditions,” said Gafurov.

He noted that thanks to preventive public awareness efforts — including health advisories shared through media and social networks — the number of emergency calls decreased by 1.2% compared to the previous week (June 24–29).

The Ministry of Health also issued a reminder to the public to take precautions during extremely hot weather. Unless absolutely necessary, people are advised to stay indoors, drink plenty of fluids, avoid fatty and smoked foods, and instead increase their intake of fruits and vegetables.