Summer’s heat will be blasting through the middle of the nation and is expanding eastward into the New England. Record highs fell this weekend in the Great Lakes and more will likely occur, especially in the Northeast.
High temperatures this weekend pushed into the 90s in the Great Lakes, breaking records on Sunday in Cleveland, La Crosse, and Alpena. Blacksburg also reached a record high as the heat moves to the east.
Excessive Heat Warnings have been issued for the Quad Cities, Iowa City, Cedar Rapids, Chicago, and St. Louis. Heat Advisories have been issued from the Central Plains to the Eastern Seaboard.
Highs will be well into the 90s from Kansas City to Boston. St. Louis will approach the century mark. With dew points well into the 70s, the heat index will climb into the triple digits.
Heat related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke will be possible. People most vulnerable include those who are spending lots of time outdoors, those who do not have air conditioning, young children, the elderly, and those with chronic ailments.
Recognize the signs and symptoms of heat illness. Early symptoms include things such as headache, thirst, and muscle cramps. Serious symptoms include weakness, skin that is cool to the touch, fast but weak pulse, nausea, and fainting. Severe symptoms include hot and red dry skin, fast and strong pulse, sweating that has stopped, and unconsciousness. Untreated heat illness can lead to fatal heat stroke.
The region will see a prolonged period of dangerously hot temperatures and high humidity. Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, avoid prolonged periods in the sun, and check on relatives and neighbors, especially the elderly. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in
vehicles under any circumstances. This is especially true during warm or hot weather when car interiors can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes.
When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water.
Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. 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.
For WeatherNation: Meteorologist Mace Michaels