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Stay Cool: Heat Advisory In Effect for Durham Today

Hydrate, avoid excessive time outside, and check on relatives and neighbors.

Wes Platt

Wes Platt

— 3 min read
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Stay Cool: Heat Advisory In Effect for Durham Today
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Southpoint AccessWes Platt

From noon until 8 p.m., Durham and other North Carolina counties can expect heat index values around 105 degrees and dangerously high humidity.

That's according to an advisory from the National Weather Service issued Thursday morning as we head into the July 4 holiday weekend.

Experts warn that the heat and humidity could result in heat illnesses. The combination is dangerous because high moisture prevents sweat evaporation, trapping heat and spiking core temperature. That can result in heat exhaustion, dehydration, and potentially fatal heat stroke.

The NWS indicate that heat index values this weekend could reach as high as 110 degrees.

Recommendations for today:

  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Don't wait until you're thirsty to hydrate.
  • Limit outdoor activities between noon and 8 p.m. If you need to mow the lawn, exercise, or do yard work, do it later this evening.
  • If you must work outside, take frequent breaks in the shade or an air-conditioned space and avoid overexertion.
  • Stay indoors in air conditioning whenever possible. If your home isn't air conditioned, consider spending part of the afternoon at a library, shopping center, or another public building.
  • Check on older neighbors, relatives, and anyone who may be especially vulnerable to the heat.
  • Make sure pets have access to fresh water and shade. Walk dogs during the cooler morning or evening hours, and avoid hot pavement.
  • Never leave children or pets unattended in a parked vehicle.
  • Watch for signs of heat-related illness, including dizziness, nausea, headache, heavy sweating, muscle cramps, or confusion. Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Call 911 immediately if someone becomes disoriented, loses consciousness, or stops sweating despite the heat.

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