{
  "id": 266583,
  "title": "How I survive summer without AC: My top hot weather coping tips, tricks, and gadgets",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/07/how-i-survive-summer-without-ac-my-top-hot-weather-coping-tips-tricks",
  "topic": "science",
  "section": "Science",
  "published": "2026-08-07T12:15:16.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "ZDNet",
    "slug": "zdnet",
    "url": "https://www.zdnet.com/article/how-to-stay-cool-in-summer-heat-without-ac/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Heatwaves have been a recurring issue in 2026, with temperatures soaring to extreme levels. In the US, daytime temps reached 115 to 120°F, while in the UK, the peak hit 99.9°F. Europe experienced even higher temperatures, with France hitting 111.7°F and Sicily, Italy reaching 119.1°F. To cope with this intense heat, it is crucial to keep the heat out of your home. Close curtains and blinds on sun-facing windows during the day and open windows at night when it is cooler to let the heat escape. If you live in a split-level property, open an upstairs window on the shaded side to allow heat to escape during the day. Use fans to circulate air, but remember that fans don't cool the air, they just move it around. Tower oscillating fans are more effective than table fans. If AC is not an option, retreat to an air-conditioned place like a library or café. Wear loose, light-colored, and breathable clothing to stay cool. Mist your skin and clothing with water using a small spray bottle, and use a cold, wet towel on pulse points for additional relief. An evaporative cooling neck wrap can also be effective. Small pocket fans are handy and can double as power banks. While avoiding caffeine and alcohol in excess is advisable due to their dehydrating effects, a moderate intake is acceptable. Stay away from strenuous activities during peak heat hours (11 am to 4 pm) and hydrate steadily throughout the day with water, milk, or orange juice, and consider electrolyte-rich drinks for heavy sweating.",
  "summary": "No AC? Me neither. Here's how to keep yourself and your home cool during a heatwave.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}