Heat advisory, triple-digit temperatures in the Fourth of July local forecast
Published 10:55 am Monday, July 4, 2022
- FW0JxIEXoAAWqHG.jpg
Triple-digit temperatures have made their way back into the East Texas forecast after slight relief last week.
It’s going to be a hot Fourth of July holiday, according to meteorologists.
Our news and weather partners at CBS19 report high temperatures will sit around 100 degrees under a mostly sunny sky this afternoon. But with the added humidity, it will feel closer to 105 to 107 degrees.
A heat advisory is in effect from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. today for portions of East Texas, including Tyler, Longview and Rusk, according to the National Weather Service of Shreveport.
The NWS reported heat index values between 105 and 109 are expected. With hot temperatures and high humidity, the risk for heat illnesses increases.
Because of this, the NWS recommends people stay in an air-conditioned room or stay out of the sun.
However, many East Texans are likely to spend the day outside anyway, so it’s important to take precautions as you celebrate.
Drinking fluids is key, so make sure you have plenty of water available. Experts recommend 5 to 7 ounces every 20 minutes to avoid dehydration and say it’s best to avoid alcohol, which can worsen conditions.
It’s also important to check in on relatives, neighbors, senior citizens and anyone without air conditioning.
Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.
Watch out for signs of heat illness
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are two serious illnesses caused by exposure to hot temperatures, but they are different. It’s important to know the signs of both, because heat stroke requires immediate medical attention.
Signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion include:
- Heavy sweating
- Weakness & fatigue
- Rapid, weak pulse
- Headaches, dizziness, lightheadedness, blurred vision or fainting
- Muscle cramps
- Nausea and vomiting
- Rapid and Shallow breathing
- Cold, pale, moist or clammy skin
- Mood changes such as irritability or confusion
Signs and symptoms of heat stroke include:
- Body temperature greater than 103°F
- Rapid, strong pulse
- Change in mental status (confused, passed out, slurred speech, inappropriate words)
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Throbbing headache
- Unconsciousness
To read more about how to react in a heat-related emergency, click here.
Watch today’s full forecast from CBS19 below: