Extreme heat is to arrive Sunday and stick around into the middle of next week.
High temperatures in the upper 80s to near 90 degree are forecast across the region Sunday, but with humidity in the mid- to upper-60s, the heat index — a measure of what the temperature “feels” like — could reach 92 degrees. Such warmth has prompted an “Extreme Heat Alert” for the region from The Weather Channel. (Official heat warnings are issued by the National Weather Service when the heat index reaches 100 degrees.)
It is important to remember that periods of high heat often coincide with high UV indexes. Be sure to protect yourself from the sun, and also remember to have liquids readily on hand in order to stay hydrated during periods of high heat.
When the index approaches 100 degrees it can affect outdoor activities and elevate the risk for heat-related illnesses, especially for heat sensitive persons.
Limit your exposure to heat outside if possible today and make sure to drink plenty of fluids.
Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water.
Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency, call 911.
The National Weather Service is forecasting temperatures of “near 90” degrees through Wednesday and mid- to upper-80s on Thursday.
The potentially uncomfortable conditions are of particular concern to those most prone to heat distress, including the elderly, infants and young children, people with respiratory ailments or chronic medical conditions, and those who are working or exercising outdoors.
In the case of individuals who may be homebound, it is important to encourage a buddy system where relatives, neighbors and friends check to see how the person is coping and if they need help.
Health officials note the following key points:
- Minimize, if possible, strenuous activity and exercise, especially during the sun’s peak hours 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Exercise during early morning hours or in the evening–when the temperatures tend to be lower.
- Drink at least 2-4 glasses of water per hour during extreme heat, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid beverages containing alcohol or caffeine.
- If possible, stay out of the sun and seek air-conditioned settings. The sun heats the inner core of your body, which may result in dehydration. If air-conditioning is not available, stay on the lowest floor, out of the sunshine, or go to a building with air conditioning (such as libraries, malls, supermarkets, or friends homes).
- If you must go outdoors, wear sunscreen with a high sun protector factor (SPF) rating of at least 15 and a hat to protect your face and head. When outdoors, wear loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothing. Cover as much skin as possible to avoid sunburn and over-warming effects of sunlight on your body.
- Never leave children, pets or those who require special care in a parked car or other vehicles during periods of intense summer heat. Temperatures inside a closed vehicle can reach over 140 degrees Fahrenheit quickly. Exposure to such high temperatures can kill within a matter of minutes.
- Make an effort to check on your neighbors during a heat wave, especially the elderly, infants and young children or others with special needs.
- Make sure there is enough water and food for pets and limit their exercise during periods of extreme temperatures.
To help you recognize heat-related health issues, the state Department of Health advises of these conditions and symptoms:
- Heat Stroke: Also known as sunstroke, heat stroke can be life threatening. Body temperature can rise and cause brain damage; death may result if the individual is not cooled quickly. Signals include hot, red, and dry skin; changes in consciousness; rapid, weak pulse, and shallow breathing. A cold bath or sponge can provide relief and lower body temperature.
- Heat Exhaustion: While less dangerous than heat stroke, heat exhaustion poses health concerns and it most often occurs when people exercise too heavily or work in warm, humid places where body fluids are lost. Signals include cool, moist, pale or flushed skin; heavy sweating; headache; nausea or vomiting; dizziness and exhaustion. If symptoms occur, move the victim out of sun, and apply cool, wet cloths.
- Sunburn: Sunburn slows the skin’s ability to cool itself. Signals include redness and pain; in severe cases, swelling of skin, blisters, fever, and headaches can occur. Ointments can be a relief for pain in mild cases. A physician should see serious cases. To protect yourself, wear sunscreen with a high sun protector factor rating (SPF) of at least 15. Always re-apply sunscreen after periods of heavy sweating or swimming.
- Heat Cramps: Muscular pains and spasms are often caused by heavy exertion. Loss of water and salt from sweating causes cramping. Signals are abdominal and leg muscle pain. Relief can be firm pressure on cramping muscles, or gentle massages to relieve cramping. Remember to hydrate often while exercising or working outdoors.
- Heat Rash: Skin irritation that looks like a red cluster of pimples or small blisters. Try to move the person to a cool place, keep the affected area dry, and have the person use talcum powder to increase comfort.
