Community Corner

Hot, Hot, Hot: Intense Heat Returns

National Weather Service Predicts Record Breaking Temperatures Friday

Temperatures in the high 90s combined with high humidity Friday will  bring the heat index into the triple digits, predicted to peak for several hours between 105 through 110. 

According to the National Weather Service, "Heat is the the number one weather-related killer in the United States, resulting in hundreds of fatalities each year. In fact, on average, excessive heat claims more lives each year than floods, lightning, tornadoes and hurricanes combined."

Cooling and hydration are important to health and safety during intense heat. Doctors recommend drinking water before leaving the house and before feeling thirsty, in order to keep the body hydrated, which aids the body in cooling itself.

Find out what's happening in Burkewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) makes these additional recommendations to prevent heat-related illnesses and even death.

  • Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun.
  • Stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine if air conditioning is not available.
  • Consider spending the warmest part of the day in public buildings such as libraries, schools, movie theaters, shopping malls, and other community facilities. Circulating air can cool the body by increasing the perspiration rate of evaporation.
  • Eat well-balanced, light, and regular meals. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
  • Drink plenty of water. Persons who have epilepsy or heart, kidney, or liver disease; are on fluid-restricted diets; or have a problem with fluid retention should consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake.
  • Limit intake of alcoholic beverages.
  • Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible.
  • Protect face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat.
  • Check on family, friends, and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone.
  • Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.
  • Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat, and take frequent breaks.

Find out what's happening in Burkewith free, real-time updates from Patch.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here