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We’re Getting Back into Sweltering Heat

We’re Getting Back into Sweltering Heat

A couple of weeks of pleasant weather were not enough, as Mother Nature quickly flips the switch to bring sweltering temperatures back to our area. Summer is known for its heatwaves, particularly in the Midwest. A couple of days prior to our little getaway to the Indiana State Fair, we were noticing temperatures getting progressively hotter. At last weekend, we took the opportunity to mow the lawn and garden, not to mention enjoy a wonderful outing to the horse show. The weather forecast was looking up for a couple of nice days. With the Indiana State Fair drawing near, the weather forecast said it was ideal for the warm weather we have been enduring for a couple of weeks. With no expectation of rain during the entire duration of the week’s end, we went ahead and planned our trip. Our eventful and relaxing weekend ended when Mother Nature took control, reversing the course of her temperature switch that had created such an pleasant atmosphere for a couple of days. When we stopped by the state fairgrounds on the following day, we were pleased to find ourselves surrounded by the same kind of heat that we were trying to avoid on our outings. At the Indiana State Fair, we had an incredible time. But, the heat kept on getting worse and worse. This weekend we were finally expecting some relief, but our worst fears were confirmed by this week’s weather forecasts. As the National Weather Service notes, there’s little relief in sight with respect to the recent pattern of extremely hot temperatures expected over the next few days. “The expected condition of heat and humidity is typical of this time of year,” it says. Here is the current seven-day forecast:

Wednesday:

Sunny, high near 89°F, and mostly clear nighttime. Thursday:

Sunset and a high near 90°F, as well as mostly clear nighttime. Winds will remain calm through. Friday:

Continue with sunny skies and warm temperatures with a high near 92°F. There will also be gentle breezes during the afternoon. Saturday:

Expect sun-kissed days and warm evenings with a high of 92°F. Sunday:

The warmth will persist, too, with the exact temperature set at 92°F. Temperatures at night will stay mostly clear under a southeast wind at 3 to 5 mph. Monday:

It’s going to get a bit stormy. There may be some chance of showers and thunderstorms alongside sunshine. The chances of such storms being possible and the forecasted temperatures are listed below in this table:

Day High Temp Chance of Showers
Monday 92°F A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms

Despite such chances of storms, the week should still be quite warm. One thing you can do to keep cool is by protecting yourself in your home.

Some Simple Ways to Stay Cool at Home

• Installing window air conditioners and insulating windows can greatly help with indoor temperature. • Cover windows with blackout curtains, drapes or blinds, and add insulation to your walls and ceiling to reduce heat gain. • Hang curtains from the outside and attach them to a window screen or stick in the window frame. • Hang a window fan near a window to catch the cool air. • Using shades is also beneficial. Additionally, here are a couple of local resources you can use to help save money on cooling costs.

Local Cooling Assistance Programs

• If you cannot afford cooling costs, contact the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Contact your local health department to see if they have more information.

Heat Illness Safety Tips

Heat illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke, can become a risk in the heat. If you are experiencing symptoms such as: *confusion* or *dizziness*, get to a cool place and drink something cool such as a drink or water from your faucet. Do not attempt to cool down yourself or the person.

  • Your healthcare provider has not given you or your family members any special precautions you need to take as a result of their health status.
  • You are under 3 years old or over 60 years old.
  • You have a heart condition or other physical condition that could make it harder for you or your family member to cool down properly. This is including people with diabetes.
  • You’ve taken diuretic medications such as Lasix.
  • You’ve taken certain antidepressants, such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors, like Ritalin, or are taking certain blood pressure medications.
  • You’ve been exposed to extreme heat without proper precautions.
  • You’ve had heat exhaustion before or have another illness that may cause you to overheat.

If you suspect heat exhaustion or heatstroke, try calling 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. This section is an excerpt from the Ready.gov website.

 

We urge you to take the necessary precautions to keep yourself and others protected from the dangers of high-temperature heatwaves.

Stay Hydrated

Do not rely solely on drinking water to stay hydrated. For added hydration benefits, you can also drink ice-cold beverages like soda or juice with high water content. Drink plenty of fluids to help keep your body’s temperature lower. It is also good to take a cool shower or bath to provide relief during those sweltering days.

   

 

Staying Safe

As we head towards the warmer months, it is essential to maintain good safety hygiene, especially during peak temperatures. Be mindful of your heat safety and always stay one step ahead. When you are outside, seek out shaded areas or find some shade to escape the heat. Use cooling devices such as fans, air conditioners, or misting bottles. Wear light, loose clothing that keeps you cooler. You must not stay outdoors for extended periods during the hottest part of the day (usually between 11am and 3pm) without proper precautions.

 

  • Take short breaks and get into the shade or cooler location.
  • Drink plenty of cool water and electrolyte-rich beverages.
  • Stay indoors during extreme heat.
  • Keep your pets safe from extreme temperatures.

 A note on pets:

Keep an eye on your pets to ensure they do not overheat. Take steps to ensure they have access to cool, shaded areas. Stay cool, Hoosiers! Stay hydrated and take necessary precautions to protect yourself from the perils of high-temperature heatwaves. We wish you a beautiful and comfortable summer.

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