An Excessive Heat Warning has been issued for portions of Northeast and Northern Florida and Southeast Georgia and will last from 10am today, to 9am this evening. This includes all of Flagler County.
This heat index tells residents and visitors to expect incredibly high heat index values, up to 115. Not only will the heat index be extremely high, but the humidity is expected to be high as well.
Extreme heat index and humidity can cause a number of heat related illnesses especially for those who work outdoors, or participate in outdoor activities.
There are 3 main heat related illnesses, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat cramps are the most mild of the three conditions which involve painful and involuntary muscle spasms that can occur during heavy exercise when in a hot environment. Heat exhaustion can be more severe than heat cramps, and includes tiredness, dizziness, headache, nausea and/or vomiting, excessive sweating, heat rashes, cramps and a fast respiratory or heart rate. Heat stroke is the most severe of the three and includes a body temp of over 104 degree, altered mental state, a change in sweating, nausea and vomiting, flushed skin, rapid breathing, racing heart, and a headache. Heat stroke is very serious and should not be taken lightly.
Some ways to combat the extreme heat index and humidity of today is to drink plenty of fluids, stay indoors, stay out of the sun, check on your family, friends and neighbors. Authorities advise never leaving children or pets unattended in vehicles in any circumstance. If you are working outside authorities urge you to take extra precautions like moving strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Knowing the signs and symptoms of heat related illnesses is important especially if you are working outdoors or are involved in outdoor activities. If you are working outdoors the Occupations Safety and Health Administration recommends that you take multiple breaks in shade or air-conditioned locations.
Anyone who has been overcome by heat needs to be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat Stroke is an emergency, if you or someone with you is suffering heat stroke symptoms, call 911 immediately.
