A hot week is coming up as the National Weather Service forecasters in Peachtree City report that temperatures will be in the 90s until the weekend when there’s a chance for showers to come in and cool things slightly.
The NWS puts today’s high at 94 after skies clear and become sunny, and clear skies to remain in the forecast through at least Tuesday. Temperatures on Tuesday are expected to be 95 with a heat index up to 100 degrees. When it gets that hot, officials do become concerned that those outdoors for too long could suffer from various heat-related issues through the days to come (see below.)
Wednesday’s forecast calls for mostly sunny skies and temperatures up to 96.
Potential for rain finally hits on Thursday, but don’t expect much with predictions of only a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms, and temps reaching 96 on the day. It’ll be much the same forecast for Friday, only temperatures up to 93 on the day.
The NWS predictions do bring chances of rain up to 50% on Saturday, with highs only up to 88. The Sunday forecast is the same, only with a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms.
As the thermometer stays above 90 degrees during the day over this coming week, it is worth remembering the serious effects that heat can have on the body.
Here’s some information to keep in mind:
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.
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. (This is not the week to be a hero.)
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.
