Summer might have started off cool and wet in Polk County last week, but now the heat has arrived and it is likely to get downright sizzling outside. Which means that extra precautions are needed for those who are going to be outdoors for an extended period of time.
Temperatures were up to the mid 90s by this afternoon in Cedartown, and are expected to get much higher across the area over the coming days as the National Weather Service in Peachtree City predicts the likelihood the heat wave will also drive the potential for thunderstorm activity.
All of this is thanks to the El Nino weather pattern – caused by above-average temperatures over an area of the Pacific Ocean around the equator. This fuels increased summertime temperatures across North America due to impacts caused by the jet stream.
The end result? Warmer waters thousands of miles west end with strange and hot weather patterns here in the southeast. Especially here in Polk County.
The forecasters in Peachtree City put the high today at 96 (depending on if one believes the bank clock on North Main Street, it was up to 98 in Cedartown around 2:30 p.m. on Thursday.) The hazy day is supposed to give way to a partly cloudy night and a low of 69, but that relief will be short-lived.
Friday’s forecast calls for a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms in the late afternoon hours, but expect mostly sunny and hot conditions with a high of 97. That heat index is going to feel brutal as forecasters call for temperatures to feel like they are up to 103 degrees Fahrenheit. (Yikes!)
NWS forecasting for the weekend isn’t much better to open the month of July: highs up to 97 again on Saturday, 95 on Sunday and only down to the low 70s overnight with chances of rain increasing as the weekend continues.
The holiday forecast on Monday and Tuesday for Independence Day calls for increasing chances of rain on both days, temperatures in the low 90s and that weather pattern is expected to stay in place by midweek following the Fourth.
Heat Safety Tips
The heat can cause all kinds of health problems for anyone who works outdoors or doesn’t have access to air conditioning. You need to know how to stay safe and hydrated during these opening of the dog days of summer bring heat indexes above 100.
First and foremost, this particular item:
NEVER LEAVE PEOPLE OR PETS IN A CLOSED CAR ON A WARM DAY!
If at all possible, please go to someplace with air conditioning if none is available in your home right now. No cooling centers are available in Cedartown or Rockmart at this time.
Take cool showers and baths. This will help you cool down and regulate your body temperature on hot days.
Wear loose, lightweight and light-colored clothing. Now is not the time to think about fancy dress. Stick with shorts, t-shirts as much as possible. Also, wear a broad-rimmed hat, which can provide some shade to you if you have to be outdoors. Find shade if you have to be outdoors.
Avoid high-energy and impact activities or work outdoors, especially during midday heat and through the early afternoon hours. If you have to be outdoors, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Avoid caffeine and sugary drinks.
Those who have been outdoors for a long period of time and have the opportunity to cool down indoors, do so and stay inside and allow your body temperature to drop for a bit.
Consider pet safety: if you can, let pets indoors. Make sure they have plenty of water and access to shade if not, and avoid allowing them on dark pavement or asphalt, as it will burn paws of pups and cats alike. Livestock should also be considered: make sure they have shade and adequate water for their needs.
Health in the Heat
Know the signs of heat cramps, exhaustion and stroke before you become a victim.
Heat stroke is a serious issue and can result in death. If you or someone you know has red, hot and dry skin with no sweat; a rapid, strong pulse; dizziness, confusion or unconsciousness and an extreme high body temperature (above 103 F.)
Anyone who suspects they may be a victim of or are around someone suffering from heat stroke, immediately call 911 for medical assistance. Be sure to cool down with whatever is available until paramedics arrive. DO NOT GIVE A VICTIM ANYONE SOMETHING TO DRINK.
Those suffering from heat cramps will have muscle pains or spasms in the stomach, arms or legs.
Heat exhaustion comes with heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, fast or weak pulse, dizziness, headache, fainting, nausea and vomiting.
Immediately go to a cooler place and strip off excess clothing, then take small sips of a sports drink or water. Call your doctor or other healthcare provider if symptoms persist.
