ClimateAugust 23, 2026
sunstroke
SUN-strohk
Definition
A serious medical condition caused by prolonged exposure to high temperatures, often resulting in high body temperature and failure of the body's cooling mechanisms.
Etymology
The word originated in the mid-18th century as a compound of 'sun' and 'stroke,' referring to a sudden, severe attack or 'stroke' of illness caused by the heat of the sun.
In the news
The article lists sunstroke as a health risk caused by the intense heat associated with the developing El Niño weather pattern, urging citizens to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear.
Fire crews, farmers preparing as NZ gears up for intense El Niño
Read the full article ↗1News