East Dallas trail (Photo by Danny Fulgencio)
The National Weather Service issued an excessive heat warning alert this afternoon for Dallas County.
Heat advisory will remain in effect today, and transition to an excessive heat warning tomorrow through 9 PM on Friday.Â
Currently, the Heat Advisory temperatures are up to 104 and heat index values up to 107. For the Excessive Heat Warning, dangerously hot conditions are temperatures up to 109 and heat index values up to 111.
Extreme heat and humidity can also increase the risk of heat related illnesses. People working outside or participating in outdoor activities are at higher risk.
Here are some precautions we can take to tackle the high temperatures as they continue for the remainder of the week from the CDC.
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
- Stay in an air-conditioned room and stay out of the sun as much as possible.
- Check up on relatives and neighbors, and have them check on you as well.
- Limit use of the stove and oven, it will make the house much warmer.
- Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing.
- Protect your skin by applying sunscreen every two hours.
- Take cool showers or baths to cool down.
- Check local news for health and safety updates.
- Schedule all outdoor activities earlier or later in the day.
- Do not leave children and pets unattended in vehicles or away from air conditioning.
According to the CDC, people should make sure to check for warning signs of heat-related illnesses when outdoors. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke share similar symptoms of headaches, dizziness, nausea, and more. These warning signs should not go overlooked and should be treated properly by moving to a cooler area or contacting 911 if symptoms worsen.
Heat stroke cannot go overlooked. People should look out for key signs such as confusion, a fast or strong pulse, losing consciousness, high body temperature of 103 or higher and more. If these symptoms do appear it is a medical emergency.
