With heat index values expected to reach 110 degrees early this week, the National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory until 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 12.
According to the advisory notice, scattered showers and thunderstorms may bring some relief to the area by late Wednesday afternoon and evening.
These types of advisories are called when the daytime heat index soars to/over 105 degrees and nighttime ambient temperatures of 75 degrees or more persist for two days or longer.
According to a news release issued by city officials, the Fayetteville Board of Health has devised a heat emergency plan to increase awareness of heat dangers and reduce heat-related injuries. When paramedics respond to three or more patients suffering from suspected heat-related illness in a 24-hour period, a Heat Alert will be issued if the weather pattern is expected to continue.
If a Heat Alert or heat advisory is issued for three consecutive days, the Washington County Department of Emergency Management will designate a list of facilities that will be utilized as cooling stations.
It probably goes without saying, but the combination of hot temperatures and high humidity is a recipe for a dangerous situation in which heat illnesses are possible.
Here are some precautions to take during extremely hot weather:
- Reduce outdoor activity, particularly during the late morning and afternoon hours.
- Limit alcohol and caffeine consumption, and increase your water intake.
- Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
- Spend as much time as possible in an air-conditioned environment; visit a library, indoor shopping mall, community center or other such venue if you don’t have an air conditioner at home.
- Pay close attention to individuals who are at increased risk for heat-related illness, including young children (under age 4), senior citizens, and people with chronic medical conditions such as heart disease or high blood pressure, and outdoor laborers.
- Never, ever leave a child unattended in a vehicle.
