Staying Safe (and Cool) During the Heat Wave

Over the next week, Upstate residents will be reminded of the difference between unseasonably warm and oppressively hot, so hot that safety precautions will need to be taken.

James Oh, a meteorologist for the National Weather Service in Greenville, said the entire Upstate stands a good chance of seeing temperatures higher than 100 degrees from Friday until the July 4 holiday on Wednesday.

"We very well could see 100 degree temperatures until Wednesday," Oh said. "Right now a high pressure system is over Texas and shifting eastward. By Friday, the high presure will settle in over the Southeast. The problem is once the high pressure is settled, it will stall for a long time over our area. That will cause temperatures to shoot up over triple digits." 

Records highs are possible throughout the Upstate. The NWS's official projections call for a high of 100 on Friday and 103 on Saturday, followed by temperatures ranging from 99 to 100 through next Wednesday. 

Oh said that in Greenville, the record for June 29 is 101 degrees, and the rest of the record high temperatures standing at 100 or under for subsequent days throughout Wednesday. 

"There's a better chance of setting a record each day until Wednesday," Oh said. 

Temperatures in the Upstate generally average around 90 degrees at this time of the year. Oh said the abnormally high temperatures present a health hazard. 

"People have to prepare for a heat event like this," Oh said. "There's an increased risk for heat-induced stroke, especially for elderly people and younger children. Make sure you stay indoors, especially during afternoon hours. That's the best advice."

For more information on the risks of high heat, visit the website of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) which explains what a Heat Index is and how it can help you determine what course of action to take. Staying hydrated is critical.

Did you know that on average, excessive heat claims more lives each year than floods, lightning, tornadoes and hurricanes combined?

The NOAA also has a guide to heat safety available on its site.

If you're among the many pet-owners in the Upstate, here is a quick guide from the Humane Society on how to keep your pets safe during oppressive heat.

Cooling It

If you're looking for a place to cool off, public swimming is available at Paris Mountain State Park for no more than $2 as well as other parks in the State System. The Greenville County Rec Department has three Waterparks that are open to the public. Prices range from $4-14 depending on age.

 in Simpsonville has a waterpark that opens at 10 every day except Sunday, when it opens at 11.

Needless to say, visitors to parks should expect long lines and wear plenty of sunscreen.