If you’ve been outside today you’ve already realized… it’s hot. But it isn’t just a regular summer day in Middle Tennessee. Weather forecasters expect extreme heat conditions all week.
The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for Monday, as high temperatures this week are expected to reach the upper 90s with heat indexes of more than 100 degrees on multiple days. NWS has said that between now and Wednesday it will feel as if it’s 105 degrees outside. Residents are being warned to take caution to beat the heat.
“If they can be inside in air-conditioning that’s the best bet, but some people can’t,” says forecaster Scott Unger.
Health experts say don’t underestimate the risk of illness from these high temperatures. Some tips for staying safe include: Drink plenty of water; use sunscreen; stay in an air-conditioned or cool, shady location; wear loose, lightweight clothing; and know the signs of heat exhaustion. Those include dizziness, extreme thirst, heavy sweating, nausea and weakness. Worst case scenario is heat stroke, with symptoms like confusion, dizziness and passing out. That is an emergency and warrants a call to 911.
Unger says if you must be outside, don’t stay in the sun for too long.
“So, if you’ve got to be outside making sure you’re taking many breaks in the shade and trying to stay out of the direct sunlight and drinking a lot of water,” said Unger. “Those are the main keys to trying to prevent heat illnesses.”
Unger added make sure to apply sunscreen and if you are wearing a hat try to go with a vented one.
All these tips are even more important for some populations — like the elderly and the unhoused. So, check on family and friends who might be most at risk. Officials also warn never leave young children and pets in an unattended vehicle under any circumstance — heat wave or not.
On Air - 90.3 WPLN-FM