Extreme heat expected through the week

WAKEFIELD

The National Weather Service in Wakefield is issuing a heat advisory in effect now through 6 p.m. today for Western Tidewater, the rest of Southeastern Virginia as well as Northeastern North Carolina. Though the temperature high is forecast at 94F, the heat indices are expected to range from 103F to 107F, with humidity at 62 percent.

There is also a 20-percent possibility of isolated thunderstorms later this afternoon.

This isn’t a one- or two-day occurrence, though. No such luck. NWS’s forecast also calls for highs in the mid to upper 90s through Monday, July 22, with the heat index around the low 100s. There is also about a 30-percent chance of thunderstorms each day. Lows each night will be around the mid to upper 70s.

The NWS also urges people to take precautions by drinking plenty of fluids, staying out of the sun when possible and instead staying in air-conditioned rooms. Wear light-weight and loose-fitting clothes. Also, be sure to check on neighbors and relatives.

If you must work outside, the NWS recommends performing strenuous activities in the early morning or evening. Further, the agency passes along this recommendation from the occupational safety and health administration to plan for frequent reset breaks in air-conditioned or shaded places. If you or others close are overcome by the heat, move to a cool and shaded site.

Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. According to www.webmd.com, these can include: feeling confused, dizzy or light-headed; a strong headache; minimal to no sweating; skin that’s dry, hot and red; rapid and shallow breathing; rapid heartbeat; nausea or vomiting; fainting; cramping; and slurred speech. Heat stroke can be an emergency, so call 911.