06/06/2026
Heat is one of the leading causes of weather-related fatalities. Extreme heat puts intense stress on the body, especially for older adults, children, and those with underlying conditions. To prevent heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke, stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities during midday, and never leave children or pets in parked vehicles.
Always check your local forecast and utilize official tools to monitor dangerous conditions:
HeatRisk: The NWS HeatRisk provides a 7-day, color-coded map to show the level of heat-related risk in your area.
Heat Advisory: Issued when dangerous heat conditions are expected but do not meet warning criteria.
Extreme Heat Warning: Issued when extremely dangerous heat conditions are occurring or imminent.
Actionable Safety Strategies:
Hydrate Constantly: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and heavy sugar.
Dress Properly: Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothing.
Limit Exertion: Reschedule or minimize strenuous outdoor activities, ideally avoiding the hottest part of the day between 11:00 AM and 6:00 PM.
Stay Cool: Seek out air-conditioned spaces. If your home lacks A/C, visit public libraries, malls, or designated cooling centers.
Never Leave Anyone in a Car: Even on warm days, the temperature inside a closed car can become deadly in minutes.
Check on Others: Frequently check on older adults, neighbors, and pets to ensure they have adequate relief from the heat.
Recognizing Heat IllnessHeat Exhaustion: Symptoms include heavy sweating, cold/pale/clammy skin, dizziness, nausea, and weak pulse. Move to a cooler area, loosen clothing, and sip water.
Heat Stroke: This is a severe, life-threatening medical emergency. Symptoms include a body temperature over 103°F, hot red skin (lack of sweating), rapid pulse, and confusion. Call 911 immediately and try to cool the person down with wet cloths or ice
