Here are some tips to prevent you from falling victim to a heat related illness. Obey all heat safety rules. The safest thing to do is stay inside your home or an air conditioned facility. If you have to be outdoors for a prolonged time, drink plenty of water and electrolyte replenishing drinks, and find the shade. If you can't take indoor breaks, keep your self sprayed with cool water. Refrain from the intake of caffeinated and alcoholic beverages. Wear light fabric, light-colored loose clothing. Exercise near sunrise and sundown, not during peak heating hours. Don't leave children or pets in unattended vehicles, not even for a minute. Remember to check on neighbors, especially the elderly to make sure they have adequate air conditioning.
Children, the elderly and those with chronic ailments are usually the first to suffer from the heat. Heat exhaustion, heat cramps even heat stroke can occur after extended exposure to these conditions.
What's causing this heat? A steady onshore flow pushing moist air in from the Gulf is one factor that will send heat index values soaring. Also, a large heat dome of high pressure will remain parked across the area. Afternoon heat indices between 102 and 107 will be common over many areas the next several days. Sunday looks to be the hottest day with heat index values forecast from 107 and 111 degrees. Heat Advisories may be required for portions of our inland areas this weekend.
Meteorologist, Kelly Foster
