High temps predicted to go higher
Heat risk expected to jump to 'major'
Living in Southwest Florida, residents are no strangers to warm days and high temps.
But over the last week, it’s been hot. Really hot.
The National Weather Service earlier this week issued heat index advisories for all of the Sunshine State, with values topping out at a blistering 115, with temps in the high 90s to triple digits.
Wednesday saw the NWS’ HeatRisk map showing an “Orange 2” level for most of Southwest Florida. Orange 2 is described as “moderate – affects those who are sensitive to heat, especially those without cooling/hydration, and some health systems and industries.”
The region should stay in the orange zone until the Saturday, when potential heat risks jump to “Red 3,” or “major – affects anyone without cooling/hydration as well as health systems and industries.”
Southwest Florida is expected to stay in the “red” Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, with a high of 92 to 95 degrees.
It’s not just Florida that’s experiencing these high temps, either.
“Approximately 107 million people under Extreme heat warnings and heat
advisories from the Central Gulf coast to the Lower Lakes,” wrote Bob Oravec, lead forecaster at the National Weather Service, in a Wednesday afternoon update. “The late July heat wave over the central to eastern U.S. will continue to produce a widespread region of major heat risks stretching from the Central Gulf coast, north through the Mississippi Valley, across the Ohio Valley and into the Lower Lakes region Thursday, pushing eastward by Friday across the megalopolis from Boston to New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington D.C.”
With the extreme heat this past week, with undoubtedly more to come this summer, The American Red Cross South Florida Region provided some insight and tips for Floridians.
Extreme heat and stifling humidity are set to hit much of the country in the coming days, putting millions of people in the path of the hottest temperatures of the year so far which will last into next week.
“Although South Florida is no stranger to hot weather, but heat waves like this can be deadly,” officials state.
The American Red Cross is urging residents to take precautions to stay safe and prevent heat-related illnesses:
• Stay hydrated by drinking a cup of water every hour, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
• Stay cool by spending time in air-conditioned places. If your home is too hot, go to a mall, library or cooling center.
• Stay connected by checking on others and asking for help if you need it.
• Make sure pets have access to fresh water and shade.
According to the Florida Department of Health, extreme heat is one of the leading weather-related causes of death in the U.S., and Florida is particularly vulnerable due to its long summers and high humidity.
“These conditions can overwhelm the body’s cooling system, leading to heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions,” FDOH officials state. “To stay safe, monitor heat warnings, stay hydrated, wear lightweight, light-colored clothing, and avoid outdoor activities during peak heat. Ensure access to cool spaces and create an emergency plan for power outages to reduce the risks and protect your health during extreme heat events.”
Signs of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and fainting.
“Listen to weather reports, recognize the signs of heat-related illnesses, and adjust your activities accordingly,” FDOH officials state. “Always make sure to rest in shaded or air-conditioned areas. Remember, when the heat is on, it’s essential to take it slow, avoid strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day, stay cool, and hydrate often. Taking these precautions can help you avoid serious health issues and ensure your safety during intense heat.”
To reach CJ HADDAD, please email cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com