An Analysis of Patients Presenting to the Emergency Department Due to Severe Southwester Wind: 21–22 November 2024
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Abstract
Objective: In Turkey, the southwesterly wind known as Lodos wind, which is prevalent during the winter and spring months, is known to disrupt maritime, air, and land transportation in certain regions and negatively impact both the natural and built environment. This study aims to investigate the general characteristics, exposure causes, and emergency department outcomes of patients presenting due to severe Southwester wind events.
Methods: Patients presenting to a tertiary emergency department between November 21 and 22, 2024, with trauma or carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning symptoms attributed to the Southwester wind were retrospectively evaluated.
Results: A total of 35 patients were included in the study. The mean age was 42.14±19.74 years, and 22 of them (62.9%) were male. It was found that 3 patients (8.6%) presented with signs of CO poisoning, while 29 patients (91.4%) presented with trauma-related complaints. The most frequently observed trauma was extremity injury (n=21, 65.6%). Two patients (5.7%) were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU), and eight patients (22.9%) were hospitalized in inpatient wards. Of the ICU admissions, one was due to CO poisoning and the other due to trauma. No mortality was observed in the first 24 hours or within 28 days. Patients transported to the emergency department by ambulance had significantly higher rates of ICU and inpatient ward admissions (p<0.05).
Conclusion: This study highlights the impact of sudden meteorological events such as severe Southwester wind on the healthcare system. It provides insights for both clinical management and disaster preparedness.
