If you are planning on enjoying your Independence Day outdoors, be prepared for hot temperatures and high humidity if you are located in much of the eastern part of the nation. Excessive Heat Warnings have been issued around the Ohio River, including Cincinnati and Columbus. Heat Advisories include more than two dozen states from the Plains to New England.
High temperatures will reach well into the 90s, with a few areas approaching the century point in the Ohio and Tennessee Valleys. With high humidity, the heat index will climb into the triple digits from Georgia to Ohio. 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. 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.
Residents are reminded to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, avoid prolonged periods in the sun, and check on relatives and neighbors, especially the elderly. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances. This is especially true during warm or hot weather when car interiors can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes.
For WeatherNation: Meteorologist Mace Michaels