Conditions that can induce heat-related illnesses include poor air quality and little to no air circulation. As a result, people who live in urban areas may be at greater risk from the effects of a prolonged heat wave than those living in rural areas. Also, asphalt and concrete store heat longer and gradually release heat at night, which can produce higher nighttime temperatures.
Condition | Symptoms | First Aid Response |
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Severe Sunburn |
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Heat Cramps |
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Heat Exhaustion |
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Heat Stroke |
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NOAA can issue the following heat-related products as conditions warrant. During extreme heat emergencies, you can find detailed information on your local TV and radio, the National Weather Service, and NOAA.
Preparing for extreme heat can protect your family. There are steps you can take to make your home a better place to stay during periods of extreme heat.
During a heat emergency, you can protect you and your family from illness and harm. Ways to be safe include eating well-balanced, light, and regular meals and avoiding salt tablets unless otherwise directed. Drink plenty of water and consult your doctor if you have medical fluid retention issues. Limit your intake of alcoholic beverages; they raise your body temperature. Dress in baggy, lightweight, and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible. Protect your face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat. Use sunscreen on exposed skin if you have to be outside. Avoid hard physical work during the warmest part of the day. If you have work to do, use a buddy system and take frequent breaks.
During and after extreme heat events, remember to check up on family, friends, and neighbors who are alone and do not have air conditioning. If you are 65 years of age or older, have a friend or relative call to check on you twice a day during a heat wave. If you know anyone in this age group, check on them at least twice a day. After extreme heat conditions, it is still likely to be very warm. Continue to hydrate and protect yourself and your family from heat-related illness.
Excessive Heat Outlook |
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An excessive heat outlook is issued when the potential exists for an excessive heat event in the next 3-7 days. An outlook provides information to those who need considerable lead time to prepare for the event, such as public utilities, emergency management and public health officials. |
Excessive Heat Watch |
An excessive heat watch is issued when conditions are favorable for an excessive heat event in the next 12 to 48 hours. This means that the risk of a heat wave has increased, but its occurrence and timing is still uncertain. A watch provides enough lead time so those who need to prepare can do so, such as cities that have excessive heat event mitigation plans. |
Excessive Heat Warning/Advisory |
An excessive heat warning or advisory is issued when an excessive heat event is occurring, is imminent, or has a very high probability of occurring in the upcoming 36 hours. The warning is used for conditions posing a threat to life or property. An advisory is for less serious conditions that cause significant discomfort or inconvenience and, if caution is not taken, could lead to a threat to life and/or property. |
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