Dangerous heat grips north Alabama
A heat advisory is in effect across north Alabama through Friday as forecasters expect temperatures in the mid- to upper 90s and heat index values as high as 110 degrees.
The National Weather Service in Huntsville said the combination of extreme heat and humidity will create a major heat risk across much of north Alabama from Wednesday through Friday.
The Alabama Department of Public Health is urging residents to take precautions and watch for signs of heat-related illnesses, including heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Anyone exposed to high temperatures can develop symptoms when the body’s temperature-control system becomes overloaded, according to the department.
Heat cramps can include muscle pain or spasms in the abdomen, arms or legs, along with heavy sweating and a high concentration of salt in sweat.
Heat exhaustion can cause heavy sweating, pale skin, muscle cramps, fatigue, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting or fainting. Other symptoms can include cool, moist skin; a fast, weak pulse; rapid, shallow breathing; and irritability.
Older adults, people with high blood pressure and those working or exercising in hot environments are especially susceptible to heat exhaustion, according to ADPH. Untreated heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke.
Heat stroke, sometimes called sun stroke, is the most serious heat-related illness and is a medical emergency. A person’s body temperature can rise to 106 degrees or higher within 10 to 15 minutes when the body loses its ability to regulate its temperature.
Signs can include extremely high body temperature; red, hot and dry or moist skin; a rapid, strong pulse; throbbing headache; dizziness; nausea; dehydration; confusion; combativeness; and unconsciousness.
ADPH said heat stroke can be life-threatening even with immediate treatment and can cause serious long-term health problems.
Health officials recommend drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding alcohol and caffeinated beverages to reduce the risk of dehydration. People should stay in air-conditioned spaces when possible, avoid direct sun, wear light-colored and loose-fitting clothing and a wide-brimmed hat, and use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15.
Cool showers or baths can also help lower body temperature, and strenuous outdoor activity should be reduced or avoided during the hottest part of the day.
The NWS also recommends limiting strenuous activity during the afternoon and using air conditioning when available, noting that fans alone may not provide adequate cooling during extreme heat.
ADPH warned residents never to leave people or pets inside parked vehicles, where temperatures can rapidly become dangerous.
People at increased risk of heat-related illness include those with heart disease, diabetes, obesity, poor circulation or a history of stroke, as well as older adults, young children and people taking certain medications.
