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Heat advisory continues

FRANKLIN

Western Tidewater remains under a heat advisory through 8 p.m. Thursday, according to a 6:15 p.m. update by the National Weather Service in Wakefield. Highs have been in the upper 90s since the weekend, but the heat index has pushed that up to the low 100s. The thermometer is expected to drop to the mid-90s today and tomorrow, then cooling to the upper 80s by Friday.

Lows will hover in the mid-70s through Thursday.

Today will be mostly sunny, the agency reports, adding there’s a 30 to 50% chance of thunderstorms tomorrow afternoon to the night.

The NWS urges residents:

• Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors.
• Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.

Further, take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening.

• Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
• Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible. Don’t forget to apply sunblock lotion as needed.
• To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments.
• Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency. Call 911.