Prepare For Heat Wave

Heat caused more deaths in recent years than all other weather events including floods according to the American Red Cross. 

Sara Smith, communications specialist for the American Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania Chapter, said the organization recommends folks know the signs of heat stroke, which include cool, moist, pale or flushed skin; heavy sweating; headache; nausea; dizziness; weakness and exhaustion.

A person suspected of having heat stroke should move to a cooler place, loosen or remove tight clothing, drink small amounts of cool water and apply cool, wet cloths or towels to the skin, the organization says. 

If a heat stroke victim refuses water, vomits or begins to lose consciousness, it’s time to dial 911 for help.

Smith said trained Red Cross workers recommend folks keep a heat wave safety checklist on hand.

“We also have people available to talk about signs of heat stroke and what to do in case of a heat emergency as well as water safety and what to do in case of a water emergency,” she said.

More heat is on the way, Andy Mussoline, AccuWeather.com meteorologist said on Wednesday.

Temperatures climbed to 93 degrees in today and the high humidity made the climate seem even hotter. 

“It’s a classic summer day across the area today,” he said. “We can expect much of the same tomorrow.”

More heat is in store for the next few days, he said.

“The humidity will stick around for Friday,” Mussoline said. 

Temperatures Saturday and Sunday will be around 90 degrees, he said.

“The weekend is looking quite nice at this point but very warm,” Mussoline said. “The majority of the weekend should be dry.”

The American Red Cross recommends you understand these heat terms:

• Excessive Heat Watch - Conditions are favorable for an excessive heat event to meet or exceed local Excessive Heat Warning criteria in the next 24 to 72 hours.

• Excessive Heat Warning - Heat Index values are forecast to meet or exceed locally defined warning criteria for at least 2 days (daytime highs equal 105 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit).

• Heat Advisory - Heat Index values are forecast to meet locally defined advisory criteria for 1 to 2 days (daytime highs equal 100 to 105 degrees.)