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Extreme Heat

Extreme heat is a period of high heat and humidity with temperatures above 90 degrees for at least two to three days. In extreme heat your body works extra hard to maintain a normal temperature, which can lead to death. Extreme heat is responsible for the highest number of annual deaths among all weather-related hazards.

  • Never leave people or pets in a closed car on a warm day.
  • If air conditioning is not available in your home, find a cooling option.
  • Take cool showers or baths.
  • Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
  • Use your oven less to help reduce the temperature in your home.
  • If you’re outside, find shade. Wear a hat wide enough to protect your face.
  • Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to start drinking fluids. Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
  • Try to avoid high-energy activities or work outdoors, during midday heat, if possible. Take plenty of breaks.
  • Check on family members, older adults and neighbors.
  • Watch for heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. 

Heat STROKE Signs

  • Extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees F) taken orally.
  • Red, hot and dry skin with no sweat.
  • Rapid, strong pulse.
  • Dizziness, confusion or unconsciousness.

If you suspect heat stroke, call 9-1-1 and get the person to a hospital immediately. If possible: move the person suffering from heat stroke into a cool, shaded area; remove any outer clothing; place a cold wet cloth on the head, neck, armpits and groin, or soak the person’s clothing with cool water; elevating their feet.

Heat CRAMPS Signs

  • Muscle pains or spasms in the stomach, arms or legs.

Heat EXHAUSTION Signs

  • Heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, fast or weak pulse, dizziness, headache, fainting, nausea, vomiting.

If you have signs of heat cramps or heat exhaustion, go to a cooler location and cool down by removing excess clothing and taking sips of sports drinks or water. Call your healthcare provider if symptoms get worse or last more than an hour.

Fr more information on heat preparedness, visit Ready.gov new window or Weather.gov.

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