Community Corner

Excessive Heat Warning in Effect for Thursday

Heat index values forecast for 105 to 108 degrees in the shade.

The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning for Thursday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. because of hot temperatures combined with high humidity.

At its peak, the heat index values are expected to climb to 105 to 108 degrees in the shade and could be up to 15 degrees higher in the sun.

In addition, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection has issued a code orange air quality alert for Thursday for the Pittsburgh area.

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That means air pollution concentrations in the Pittsburgh region may become unhealthy for children; the elderly; and people suffering from asthma, heart disease or lung disease.

The Red Cross warns that the heat and humidity can create a potentially life-threatening situation. The Red Cross website defines heat illnesses and their treatments as follows:

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Heat cramps

Symptoms: Painful, prolonged muscle cramps, often brought on with strenuous activity.

Treatment: Move the person to a cooler place, have them rest, lightly stretch the affected muscle, and replenish their fluids with half a glass (about 4 ounces) of cool water every 15 minutes. 

Heat exhaustion

Symptoms: cool, moist, pale or flushed skin, heavy sweating, headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness.

Treatment: Move the person to a cooler place, remove or loosen tight clothing and spray the person with water. You can also apply cool, wet cloths or towels to the skin. Fan the person. If they are conscious, give small amounts of cool water to drink. Make sure the person drinks slowly. Watch for changes in condition. If the person refuses water, vomits or begins to lose consciousness, call 9-1-1.

Heat stroke

Symptoms: Hot, red skin which may be dry or moist; changes in consciousness; vomiting; and high body temperature.

Treatment: This is a life-threatening condition. Call 9-1-1 immediately. Move the person to a cooler place. Quickly cool the person’s body by immersing them up to their neck in cold water if possible. Otherwise, douse or spray the person with cold water, or cover the person with cold, wet towels or bags of ice.

Tips for Thursday:

Stay in air conditioning

If you must go outside, avoid strenuous activity, stay in the shade and drink lots of water.

Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothes.

Check in on relatives and neighbors.

If you must work outdoors, schedule frequent rest breaks in shade or air condtioning.

Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool, shaded location.


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