HISTORIC TRIANGLE — As the first extreme heatwave of the summer hits the Historic Triangle this week, residents should be prepared to deal with the sweltering temps.
According to the National Weather Service, a heatwave will begin to impact our area this week. Oppressive humidity will also factor into the temperatures, resulting in forecasts for temps over 100 degrees. These high temperatures can also lead to severe thunderstorms. Current forecast trends indicate that the heat will last for the remainder of the week, with relief possible by the following weekend.
WYDaily recently compiled a list of tips to help beat the heat.
Heat Stroke vs. Heat Exhaustion
A common cause for concern when temps are high is heat-related illnesses. The two most common are heat stroke and heat exhaustion.
Heat exhaustion, which sets in first, is a heat-related illness that occurs when the body loses excessive amounts of water and salt through sweating. This leads to the body being unable to cool itself effectively. It is the less severe form of a heat-related illness.
To combat heat exhaustion, move to a cooler area, loosen clothing, sip cool water and seek medical help if symptoms don’t improve. Signs of heat exhaustion include dizziness, thirst, heavy sweating, nausea and weakness.
Heat stroke, a medical emergency, happens when the body gets overheated and the body’s cooling system is completely overwhelmed and stops working.
To combat heat stroke, call 911, move the person to a cooler area, loosen clothing and remove extra layers and cool with water or ice. Signs of heat stroke include confusion, dizziness and loss of consciousness.
Precautions
If working outside is a must during a heatwave, the following tips may help you.
- Limit outdoor activities, especially during the hottest part of the day, which usually falls between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
- Seek shade whenever possible.
- Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Apply sunscreen with a high SPF.
Home Prep
- Keep overhead lights turned off.
- If you don’t have air conditioning, stay on the lowest floor away from the sun. Alternatively, seek air-conditioned spaces like libraries, cooling centers or shopping malls for relief.
- Take cold showers or baths.
- Keep your home as cool as possible by using curtains, blinds and shades during the day.
- Use fans to circulate air, but avoid blowing hot air directly on yourself.
- Close windows during the day and open them at night when the air is cooler.
- Heatwaves can cause power outages. Have a plan in place to stay cool and safe during an outage.
Hydration
- Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, even before you feel thirsty.
- Replace salt and minerals lost through sweat with sports drinks or salty snacks.
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks as they can dehydrate you.
To keep a check on the local forecast, visit weather.gov/wakefield.