National Weather Service forecasters are expecting “dangerous heat and humidity” over the July Fourth holiday weekend, and state health officials are urging the public to take precautions as they celebrate Independence.
Highs are forecast to be in the mid-80s on the coast and in the 90s farther inland through at least Tuesday. The heat wave comes as many get set for outdoor activities.
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The maximum heat index will likely be in the 100s for many coastal counties this weekend, including Beaufort, Bertie, Camden, Chowan, Craven, Currituck, Gates, Hertford, Pamlico, Pasquotank, Pender, Perquimans, Tyrrell and Washington counties, North Carolina Division of Public Health officials said Wednesday.
The heat index is what the temperature feels like to the human body when relative humidity is combined with the air temperature, according to the National Weather Service.
“Heat of this magnitude can be dangerous to your health, particularly for people who are more exposed to extreme heat or more sensitive to extreme heat,” officials said. This includes people without access to air conditioning, those working or exercising outdoors, older adults, pregnant women, those living with disabilities and underlying health conditions, and those who live alone.
To prevent heat-related illness, drink plenty of fluids, avoid caffeinated, sugary or alcoholic drinks, reduce outdoor activities, stay in air-conditioning as much as possible, and watch for symptoms.
Those over 60 and adults with disabilities are eligible can sign up with their county for a fan purchased with donations through the Operation Fan Heat Relief program.
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“Summer heat can be dangerous for seniors living without air conditioning,”
Lakisha Williams, Director of Aging Services for Carteret County, said in a statement Wednesday about the fan program. “When temperatures soar, opening windows and using a fan can significantly improve air circulation and help residents stay cool.”
Related: Fans available to eligible adults through state program
During periods of extreme heat, Carteret County officials advised older adults to:
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.
- Avoid strenuous activity outdoors or in hot environments.
- Wear a hat when spending time in the sun.
- Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, fruit, or vegetable juices and iced tea
to replace the fluids lost by sweating. - Keep your medicine in a cool, dry place.
- Check up on friends or neighbors who live alone.
For more on preventing heat-related illness or to sign up for heat alerts, visit the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services website.
