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-Press Release, National Weather Service
The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity will produce dangerously high heat index values on Friday. The situation will get worse Saturday and Sunday when excessive heat is expected, with limited cooling at night.
The National Weather Service in Raleigh has issued a Heat Advisory, which is in effect from noon to 7 p.m. EDT on Friday.
An Excessive Heat Watch has also been issued. This Excessive Heat Watch is in effect from Saturday through Sunday evening.
Graphic courtesy the National Weather Service.
Heat Index Values
The heat index will be up to 105 degrees Friday. Then, heat index values potentially may soar to between 110 and 112 degrees for Saturday and Sunday afternoons. Heat indices will likely remain between 80 and 90 all night through the period, greatly increasing the potential for heat-related illnesses.
Timing
The most dangerous time will be between noon and 7 p.m. Friday, then all of the weekend. It will not cool below 80 degrees over many areas until 4 or 5 in the morning.
Impacts
Dangerously high temperatures and humidity could quickly cause heat stress or heat stroke if precautions are not taken. In addition, consecutive days of dangerous heat will continue into the weekend, when the heatwave will reach a peak.
Consecutive days of dangerous heat indices have a cumulative effect on the body, significantly increasing the potential for heat-related illnesses.
Precautionary Actions
Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun and check up on relatives and neighbors.
Take extra precautions if you must work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water.
To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.
Heatstroke is an emergency – call 911.
For additional information and tips, visit the National Weather Service website (click here).