Region feeling the heat as temperatures climb
Department of Public Safety is warning residents to be prepared and take precautions to stay safe as temperatures and heat indexes hit 100 degrees in some parts of the area.
Extreme temperatures increase the risk of heat-related injuries or deaths.
Locally, an upper-level ridge of high pressure will maintain elevated temperatures, with a slight chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms through the end of the week, according to the National Weather Service in Shreveport, La. With temperatures climbing into the mid- and possibly upper 90s, afternoon heat indexes may approach 105 degrees through Friday.
The ridge will weaken over the weekend with the approach of a couple of weak upper-level disturbances and an associated weak cold frontal system, which should result in an increase in scattered showers and thunderstorms and slightly cooler temperatures.
“Summertime heat is a fact of life in Texas, but the dangers from high temperatures are real and should not be taken lightly,” said DPS Director Steven McCraw in a news release. “Heat-related deaths and injuries are often preventable if residents take the necessary steps to educate and protect themselves—and their loved ones.”
Warmer weather places children at greater risk of injury or death if they are left unattended in a vehicle.
Temperatures inside a car can rise more than 20 degrees in only 10 minutes. Even with an outside temperature of 60 degrees, the temperature inside a car can reach 110 degrees, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Leaving windows partially rolled down does not help, the administration said.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, extreme heat events or heat waves are one of the leading causes of weather-related deaths in the United States. Periods of severe heat and high humidity tax the body’s ability to cool itself and can lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which can be fatal.
DPS offers the following tips for safely managing the heat:
Check on the elderly, sick or very young, especially if they don’t have
“Summertime heat is a fact of life in Texas, but the dangers from high temperatures are real and should not be taken lightly.”
air conditioning.
Drink plenty of water and avoid caffeine and alcohol during prolonged outdoor exposure. Start consuming water before you head outdoors.
Pay attention to your body. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can develop quickly. If you start feeling ill, immediately find a shaded or cooler area and slowly drink fluids. Seek medical attention if necessary.
Monitor weather radios and newscasts for information on current conditions and area weather alerts.
Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun. Consider indoor activities, such as visiting shopping centers, the library or other community facilities.
Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and a hat during outdoor exposure.
If possible, avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day.
Be extra careful when cooking outdoors, building campfires or driving off-road to avoid igniting dry vegetation. Also, stay aware of burn bans and abide by restrictions on outside burning.
Don’t forget pet safety, since animals also are susceptible to heat-related injury or death.
For more information about heat alerts and tips for staying safe, visit nws.noaa.gov/os/heat/.