Temperatures are expected to reach 98 degrees today with a Heat index values as high as 103
The National Weather Service states, "The ridge of high pressure will shift toward the Tennessee Valley on Monday. While above normal temperatures will continue, it will not be as humid in western sections of the state. Oppressive conditions will continue across the eastern counties closest to the ridge, and a Heat Advisory may be necessary.
"The forecast indicates it will stay hot Tuesday through Saturday, and there is no rain expected. The silver lining is humidity levels will decrease a bit over most of the region, and additional Heat Advisories are unlikely.
" As we experience our first real taste of summer, please check up on those who will be most vulnerable to the heat. Adjust outdoor plans accordingly, and make sure pets are brought inside during peak heating hours."
Ready.gov states" Find places in your community where you can go to get cool.
Try to keep your home cool:
• Cover windows with drapes orshades.
• Weather-strip doors and windows.
• Use window reflectors such as aluminum foil-covered cardboard to reflect heat back outside.
• Add insulation to keep the heat out.
• Use a powered attic ventilator, or attic fan, to regulate the heat levelvof a building's attic by clearingvhot air.
• Install window air conditionersvand insulate around them.
- Never leave a child, adult, or animalvalone inside a vehicle on a warm day. Find places with air conditioning. Libraries, shopping malls, and community centers can provide a cool place to take a break from the heat.
- If you're outside, find shade. Wear a hat wide enough to protect your face.
- Wear loose, lightweight, lightcolored clothing.
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. If you or someone you care for is on a special diet, ask a doctor what would be best.
- Do not use electric fans when the temperature outside is more than 95 degrees. You could increase the risk of heat-related illness. Fans create air flow and a false sense of comfort, but do not reduce body temperature.
- Avoid high-energy activities.
- Check yourself, family members, and neighbors for signs of heat related illness.
Know the signs and ways to treat heat-related illness.
Heat Cramps
• Signs: Muscle pains or spasms in the stomach, arms, or legs.
• Actions: Go to a cooler location.
Remove excess clothing. Take sips of cool sports drinks with salt and sugar. Get medical help if cramps last more than an hour.
Heat Exhaustion
• Signs: Heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting, and fainting.
• Actions: Go to an air-conditioned place and lie down. Loosen or remove clothing. Take a cool bath. Take sips of cool sports drinks with salt and sugar. Get medical help if symptoms get worse or last more than an hour.
Heat Stroke
• Signs: Extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees) indicated by an oral thermometer; red, hot, and dry
skin with no sweat; rapid, strong pulse; dizziness; confusion; and unconsciousness.
• Actions: Call 9-1-1 or get the person to a hospital immediately. Cool down with whatever methods are available until medical help arrives.