Wednesday is forecasted to be a very hot day with temperatures in the upper 90s and heat index values around 100° to 105°, with some areas approaching 107°. The heat index is a ‘feels like’ value for how hot it will feel in the shade. It is even more dangerous when in direct sunlight.
The National Weather Service in Detroit/Pontiac has issued Heat Advisories for all counties north of M-59, and an Excessive Heat Warning for all counties south of M-59 to the Ohio border. The Heat Advisory is for high humidity levels boosting how the ambient temperature feels to us, from the actual upper 90s to feeling like 105 degrees. The Excessive Heat Warning is for the same reason, only the temperature will feel like 107° in some areas. These warnings and advisories go into effect at 12 pm Wednesday and expire by 8 am Thursday.
The National Weather Service posted these details in regard to keeping you and your loved ones safe.
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors.
- Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.
- 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 lightweight and loose-fitting clothing when possible.
- To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments.
- Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 911!
The signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke are listed here.
HEAT EXHAUSTION
- General weakness.
- Increased heavy sweating.
- a weak, but faster heart rate or pulse.
- nausea or vomiting.
- possible fainting.
- pale, cold, or clammy skin.
HEAT STROKE
- Elevated body temperature above 104°F.
- Rapid and strong heart rate or pulse.
- Loss, or change of consciousness.
- Hot, red, dry, or moist skin.
If any of these occur, move them to a shaded area, or if possible, an air-conditioned room. Remove unnecessary clothing items. Give them plenty of fluids, and use a cold compress or a cold, wet washcloth to reduce body temperature. If heat stroke occurs, and their body temperature is above 104°, your first priority is to call 911!