How to stay cool during the upcoming heat wave in the Rocket City

Let’s face it, folks. Summers in Alabama are extraordinarily hot and humid. And over the next few days, we will experience some of the highest temperatures so far this year.

With that in mind, here are a few tips for staying safe during this heat wave:

A hot several days ahead in Alabama

Across the state, communities are bracing for some extraordinary hear (even for Alabama).

According to the National Weather Service, several areas over the next several days could reach a heat index of more than 105 including:

Huntsville: 107
Muscle Shoals: 106
Gadsden: 106
Selma: 106
Auburn: 105
Clanton: 105
Eufaula: 105
Montgomery: 105
Tuscaloosa: 105

Staying cool during the heat wave

downtown huntsville huntsville skyline — Huntsville is going to be hot this week. (Lacey Muenstermann / Hville Blast)

When the heat index is above 105, the National Weather Service says there are higher possibilities for heat-related illnesses including:

Sunstroke
Heat cramps
Heat exhaustion
Heat stroke possible with prolonged exposure and/or physical activity

So before heading outside this week, make sure to take some advice from the experts. Here’s some tips to keep in mind:

Slow down. Strenuous activities should be reduced, eliminated, or rescheduled to the coolest time of the day. Individuals at risk should stay in the coolest available place, not necessarily indoors.
Dress for summer. Lightweight, light-colored clothing reflects heat and sunlight, and helps your body maintain normal temperatures.
Foods (like proteins) that increase metabolic heat production also increase water loss.
Drink plenty of water or non-alcoholic fluids. Your body needs water to keep cool. Drink plenty of fluids even if you don’t feel thirsty.
Do not drink alcoholic beverages.
Spend more time in air-conditioned places. Air conditioning in homes and other buildings markedly reduces danger from the heat. If you cannot afford an air conditioner, spending some time each day (during hot weather) in an air conditioned environment affords some protection.
Don’t get too much sun. Sunburn makes the job of heat dissipation that much more difficult.

Don’t forget your pets!

The Ark employee with two dogs — Keep your pets cool as well. (Lacey Spear / Hville Blast)

Don’t forget that pets need to stay safe from the hear as well.

Dr. Deborah Armes with North Alabama Veterinary Emergency & Specialty (NAVES) said she’s already seen cases of heat stroke this summer, which is a life-threatening condition.

She said pets should not be left outdoors for long periods of time in this heat, especially older dogs and brachycephalic breeds like Pugs and French Bulldogs.

Sighs of heat stroke include excessive panting, drooling, pale gums, seizure, or stumbling and collapse.

“Never leave pets in a hot car, even with windows down, the temperatures rise very quickly. And always provide plenty of shade and lots of water while enjoying time outdoors with your pets.”

Dr. Deborah Armes, North Alabama Veterinary Emergency & Specialty

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