July 16, 2019

The national weather service in Mount Holly has issued an excessive heat warning which is in effect from 8 a.m. Wednesday to 10 p.m. Sunday.

Heat index values will be up to 110 due to temperatures in the upper 90s, and dew points in the lower 70s.

The highest heat index values will occur during the daytime, especially on Saturday. However, given how hot and oppressive this air mass will be, there will not be much relief at night.

The heat and humidity may cause heat stress during outdoor exertion or extended exposure.

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 light weight and loose fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water.

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 9 1 1.

An excessive heat warning means that a prolonged period of dangerously hot temperatures will occur. The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity will combine to create a dangerous situation in which heat illnesses are likely. 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. This is especially true during warm or hot weather when car interiors can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes.