As if we needed it, a reminder that our area is under an Excessive Heat Warning today:
Urgent – weather message
National weather service northern indiana
1203 pm edt sat jul 7 2012…Extreme Heat wave will continue through this afternoon…
.Record to near record highs…generally In the 100 to 107 degree range…are expected this afternoon.
The combination of extreme heat and high relative humidity will push afternoon heat index readings into the 105 to 115 degree range again this afternoon. A cold front is expected to move into the area late this afternoon…and Provide a much welcomed respite from the heat and humidity later tonight and sunday.
Exposure to the heat has a cumulative effect. The longer the heat persists…the greater the danger. Elderly and young children are especially susceptible to the effects of the heat. Also some people in Northeast Indiana and Northwest Ohio remain without power due to recent severe thunderstorms…with estimates that power will remain out for portions of this area through the duration of the heat wave. People without air conditioning in their home should try to spend at least a portion of each day in an air conditioned environment.
[…] …Excessive heat warning remains in effect until 9 pm edt /8 pm CDT/ this evening…
Hazardous weather…
* high temperatures this afternoon will be between 100 and 107…and near all time record highs. Heat index values of 105 to 115 are expected as well.
Impacts…
* This is a particularly dangerous and rare heat wave for this area. People should take all precautions to avoid heat related fatigue and possible heat stroke which can happen quickly.
* The elderly and children are especially susceptible to the effects of the heat and should take extra precautions. People without power due to recent severe thunderstorms will also be greatly impacted.
* In addition smoke from western forest fires and the combination of the stagnant airmass and elevated ozone levels will result in poor air quality once again.
Precautionary/preparedness actions…
An excessive heat warning means that a prolonged period of dangerously hot temperatures will occur. The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity will combine to create a dangerous situation in which heat illnesses are likely. Drink plenty of water…stay in an air-conditioned shelter…stay out of the sun…and check up on relatives and neighbors.
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 light weight and loose fitting clothing and drink plenty of water.
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 9 1 1.
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