Heat Advisory Today, Expect the Heat to Stick Around

A heat advisory is in effect today, as the combined heat and humidity will make it feel like 100-105 degrees today.
this is the first heat wave of the season, and we're actually getting more of a late Summer pattern here in the Southeast this week.
I'm going to include a link here from the National Weather Service which will give you a ton of information about heat waves, tips for beating the heat and also reminders to check on those around you who may be vulnerable in this weather.

http://www.erh.noaa.gov/rah/heat/

Here's a brief tip for things to remember during periods of excessive heat:
(courtesy of the National Weather Service): Remember the word " HEAT" (Hydrate, Educate, Act, Take it easy)

Heat waves have caused more deaths, on average, in the last ten years than any other weather hazard, including tornadoes, hurricanes, and flooding (see stats). The National Weather Service's excessive heat alert program includes 7-day heat index forecasts and outlooks, heat advisories and warnings, and special weather statements, all accessible on our home page or via the links below. Don't be a statistic this summer.... BEAT THE HEAT!


Hydrate.
Whether you feel thirsty or not, drink plenty of water to avoid becoming dehydrated, especially when you're working or exercising outside.

Educate yourself.
Keep up with the latest temperature and heat index forecasts and current readings (take actions to stay cool and safe when the temperatures hits 85 degrees or the heat index hits 90 degrees). Know the warning signs of a heat illness, and how you can stay cool.

Act quickly when a heat illness is suspected. Seek medical attention immediately for any of these warning signs: cramping, rapid pulse, heavy sweating, hot red skin, dizziness, confusion, nausea, vomiting.

Take it easy. Anyone working or exercising outdoors should avoid overexertion, especially between the hours of 11 am and 6 pm. Take hourly breaks in the shade or in air conditioning.

In addition to the heat advisory, our present weather pattern also has portions of our viewing area in a code Orange Ozone Action Day as well (Fayetteville is the exception, being in a code yellow this Thursday afternoon) . I don't expect this to improve for us anytime soon, as we have high pressure at the surface and in the upper levels of the atmosphere into next week. What this means for us is if you're particularly sensitive to ground level ozone or pullutants (for example, folks who have respiratory or some heart / circulatory conditions , children, elderly, etc.) you will need to curtail your extended outdoor activities to before 10 am or after 6 pm. If you have questions about your particular condition and how the heat might affect you, please check with your doctor.
Stay tuned to your Weather on the Ones Forecast Center for updates about the air quality, the heat, the UV index forecast (which is at a level of 10 today, meaning its in the unhealthy level; about 10 minutes before you'll experience sun damage without sunscreen, so have it handy, apply it as a habit!) and other weather information as you "weather" your 2008 summer in North Carolina!

Stay Cool!
Pati Darak
Weather On the Ones Meteorologist,
News 14 Carolina