Take Precautions: Heat Advisories in place for today

By WDIO
Take Precautions: Heat Advisories in place for today

It is hot and sticky, a Heat Advisory is in place from 1:00 p.m. this afternoon to 8:00 p.m. for portions of the Northland. The Advisory includes Pine County in Minnesota and Douglas, Bayfield, Ashland, Burnett, Washburn, Sawyer and Price Counties in Wisconsin. With high heat values, it could feel like close to 100 degrees.

An Excessive Heat Warning remains in effect for the Twin Cities metro area with heat index values up to 107 in the Twin Cities metro and up to 112 across south central Minnesota.

RELATED STORY: What is the Heat Index

With temperatures in the 80’s and high humidity, heat illnesses are possible. Take precautions when needing to spend long periods of time outdoors. Drink plenty of fluids and stay out of the sun.

The American Red Cross reminds the public that we need to drink enough water to prevent heat illness. The average person needs to drink about 3/4 of a gallon (64 ounces) of water daily, more when the heat is on.

How do you know if you are getting enough water?

  • Check your urine color. Dark yellow color may indicate you are not drinking enough.
  • Avoid sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic drinks
  • If you are sweating a lot, combine water with snacks or sports drinks to replace the salt and minerals you are losing in sweat.
  • Know how your medications can affect you (more dehydrating,) and adjust accordingly.

It is very important to find ways to stay cool. The American Red Cross says spending a few hours each day in air conditioning can help prevent heat illnesses. Find a location like a shopping center, library, or theater that has air conditioning. Wear lightweight, loose clothing. Make sure to limit time outdoors, and save workout time for cooler conditions.

If you start to feel overheated, dizzy or have exessive sweating when not working out, you may have heat exhaustion. If heat exhaustion isn’t treated, it can lead to heat stroke.

If heat exhaustion isn’t treated, it can lead to heat stroke.
RELATED STORY: Are you overheating? Know what to look for

Heat Exhaustion Symptoms:

  • Feeling faint or dizzy
  • Excessive sweating
  • Cold, pale and/or clammy skin
  • A fast but weak pulse
  • Nausea and/or vomiting
  • Muscle cramps