Hotter temperatures are an expected part of the summer season. Along with longer days of leisure and outdoor activities, increased heat is a predictable side effect of more hours filled with sunshine. However, get ready to crank up your ACs and turn on your fans because summer is already predicted to be even more sweltering than usual for most of the country.
According to a map released this week by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, only a couple of states in the Midwest including Kansas and Nebraska will be spared “above average” temperatures this summer. From June to August, most of the United States will have to brace for temperatures well above normal and exceeding those of the summers between 1981 and 2010.
This is a cause for concern since extreme heat is one of the leading causes of weather-related death. Before heading outside, it’s important to take certain safety precautions since overexposure to heat can turn deadly far too quickly.
- Watch for signs of heat stroke. Symptoms include a high body temperature, hallucinations, chills, headache, confusion, nausea, dizziness, and slurred speech. This is a medical emergency and if you believe someone is suffering from heat stroke, you should move the person to a cool area and call 911.
- Wear loose cotton clothing in light colors to reflect the sun. Avoid dark colors even when it comes to your footwear.
- Prevent the damage of sunburn by using lots of sunscreen with a high SPF.
- Stay cool on-the-go by filling a spray bottle with water and spritzing yourself throughout the day. It’s also a good idea to carry a small portable fan with you when you head out.
- Most importantly, drink lots of water! Keep a reusable bottle of water with you and fill it during the day. Always drink water before, during, and after a workout. If you are going on a drive or a hike, pack water. The recommended daily intake of water is eight 8-ounce glasses but you need to increase this number during periods of extreme heat. It can be helpful to stay on track by setting up a schedule for water consumption or simply starting each hour by taking a few sips of water.
