Life Threatening Temperatures Today and Wednesday
The National Weather Service office in Reno is issuing a warning to residents in our area to prepare for extremely dangerous temperatures and smoky conditions over the next 48 hours. According to NWS even healthy people should avoid being outside during the heat of the day, especially Wednesday when temperatures are expected to top out between 105 and 110 here in the Honey Lake Valley.
Stay Inside During the Day if Possible
“High temperatures this week will bring an increased risk for heat-related illnesses, especially those who are heat sensitive and those without effective cooling and/or adequate hydration,” explain NWS forecasters. “Daytime temperatures on Wednesday will be dangerous for most folks, so please avoid outdoor activities and work during the heat of the day on Wednesday.”
Smoky Conditions
Adding to the dangerous heat is an inversion layer which has trapped smoke from the Minerva fire in the Honey Lake Valley. Reduced air quality is exacerbating respiratory problems brought on by the extreme heat.
Wildfire smoke has harmful chemicals that can affect your health. It can cause eye and throat irritation, coughing and difficulty breathing. Everyone should take precautions to avoid smoke exposure.
Minimize or stop outdoor activities, especially exercise, stay indoors with windows and doors closed and do not run swamp coolers or fans that bring in outdoor air.
People who are at greatest risk of experiencing symptoms due to smoke include those with chronic lung disease (such as asthma) and/or heart disease, young children, pregnant women, and older adults.
If you have symptoms that may have been worsened by smoke exposure, contact your health care provider immediately. These symptoms include:
Repeated Cough
Shortness of Breath
Difficulty Breathing
Wheezing
Chest Tightness or Pain
Heat Advisory in Effect from 11:00a.m. this morning until 11:00p.m. Thursday
Highs are expected to be 100 to 110 in valley locations including here in the Honey Lake Valley.
The hottest day will be Wednesday with 105 to 110 forecast.
Overnight lows here in Susanville will be in the 60s.
Precautionary Actions
Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening, especially on Wednesday.
Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing and drink plenty of water.
Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances. Car interiors can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes!
Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency… call 911.
Here are some tips for dealing with the heat this week.
DOs:
Hydrate often.
Avoid/reschedule outdoor activities and/or work.
Wear light-colored clothing, a hat, and plenty of sunscreen.
DON’Ts:
Don’t leave your kids or pets in cars unattended. Cars heat up to lethal temperatures in just a few minutes.
Don’t ignore early signs of heat-related illnesses (i.e. dizzy, excessive sweating, cramps, cool & clammy skin, to name a few)
Avoid drinking alcohol and caffeine since they will speed up dehydration.
Comments are closed.