Record Heat Wave Dangers and Delights
A record-setting atmospheric heat pump will expand from the Midwest into the East into this weekend.
The massive high pressure system has been responsible for over 1,000 record-high temperatures in the past week, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Even amidst the great South Central states heat and drought of 2011, so far this year we have over 7,700 more record highs compared to last year with more than 20,900 to date.
The I-95 corridor will have its second heat wave of the summer with temperatures approaching 100 degrees, challenging record highs in Richmond, Washington, D.C., and Baltimore through the weekend.
Even folks in the South, who are accustomed to highs in the lower 90s on a regular basis, will feel it with temperatures reaching the century mark in a number of cities including Atlanta, Charlotte, Nashville and Birmingham.
The AccuWeather RealFeel® temperatures will hover around 110 degrees for several hours on multiple days, which can be dangerous for many people without a means for relief.
Even places from Pittsburgh to Philadelphia and New York City will have a string of days with high temperatures well into the 90s. However, periodic, isolated thunderstorms can bring occasional relief.
The best way to beat the heat is by seeking an air-conditioned environment, swimming and staying hydrated.
People and families can head to the beach or pool to cool off.
Some businesses actually prefer these hot summer days, since they profit from sales of ice cream, soft drinks, sunscreen, etc. Air-conditioned shopping malls, movie theaters and beach communities are busy as the temperature climbs. Amusement parks, especially water parks do a bumper business.
Keeping your body cool and hydrated during extreme heat is the best thing you can do to avoid any serious health risks.
Infants, elderly and folks with respiratory problems are the most susceptible to the heat.
Make sure to check on your family and friends to see if their living arrangements are acclimated to the heat.
Don't forget that pets are in need of extra care in extreme heat.
People that are without air-conditioning should open their windows at night to allow the heat to escape from their homes after the sun has set. Failure to do so can cause the heat to build up over time.
Since heat rises, the lowest level of your home will generally be the coolest.
A basement may be a way to beat the heat if you do not have air-conditioning. People can go to heat shelters. There may even be emergency distribution centers for fans.
Kids at sports and band camps are usually outside most of the day and are at risk for hyperthermia.
The best time for strenuous activity is early in the morning, when temperatures are low or in the evening when the sun is lower in the sky.
An important tip to stay cool is to drink plenty of non-alcoholic beverages. Alcoholic beverages can accelerate dehydration and hyperthermia.
If you will be outside in the heat of the day, try to wear light-weight, light-colored clothing and a hat.
Just because a heat wave is forecast, doesn't mean you can't still enjoy yourself. Just be smart, take precautions and don't overdo it, so you don't wind up as another statistic in the heat wave.
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