Excessive Heat to Start the Week in the South and West

The weekend was hot in the South and West and the work week is starting the same way with the mercury jumping to extreme levels. Excessive Heat Warnings have been issued from Texas to California, with Heat Advisories from the Gulf of Mexico to the Pacific Ocean. The heat index will surge to near 110 in some locations across Texas as the temperature climbs to the century point. Most of the week ahead will be hot with heat alerts in the Southwest through the end of the week. Highs will climb above 110 in the desert areas of Arizona, Nevada, and California today (Monday) and Tuesday. Even Los Angeles will see highs well into the 90s. Residents are reminded to stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay informed. Heat related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke will be possible. People most vulnerable include those who are spending lots of time outdoors, those who do not have air conditioning, young children, the elderly, and those with chronic ailments. The extreme heat will continue at least through Thursday with 90s and triple digits high temperatures common throughout the Southwest. Recognize the signs and symptoms of heat illness. Early symptoms include things such as headache, thirst, and muscle cramps. Serious symptoms include weakness, skin that is cool to the touch, fast but weak pulse, nausea, and fainting. Severe symptoms include hot and red dry skin, fast and strong pulse, sweating that has stopped, and unconsciousness. Untreated heat illness can lead to fatal heat stroke. For WeatherNation: Meteorologist Mace Michaels