Update: Wilkinson and Amite counties under a heat advisory until Wednesday evening
Published 1:53 pm Wednesday, July 31, 2024
On Wednesday at 2:48 p.m. the National Weather Service issued an updated heat advisory in effect until 8 p.m.
The NWS adds, “Heat index values up to 112 degrees expected.”
“Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses,” explains the NWS.
NWS Heat safety: A guide to staying safe in high temperatures
- Stay hydrated: Remember to drink plenty of fluids.
- Seek shelter: Stay in an air-conditioned room.
- Avoid sun exposure: Stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors.
- Child and pet safety: Never leave young children and pets unattended in hot vehicles – car interiors can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes.
- Caution outdoors: If you must work or spend time outdoors, take extra precautions.
- Optimal timing: Consider rescheduling strenuous activities to early morning or evening if possible.
- Recognize heat-related issues: Learn to identify the warning signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
- Dress comfortably: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing to stay comfortable.
Additional recommendations for outdoor workers:
- For outdoor workers, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends regular rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
- If someone is overwhelmed by the heat, swiftly relocate them to a cool, shaded location.
- In emergencies, call 911 for immediate assistance.
These NWS heat safety directives are essential for safeguarding your well-being when facing high temperatures. Stay well-informed and take the necessary precautions to shield yourself and others from the potential hazards of extreme heat.
Source: The National Weather Service