High pressure is providing another round of oppressive heat and humidity to the eastern US again, prompting officials at the National Weather Service to raise another round of heat-related advisories for a portion of the heavily populated I-95 corridor in the Mid Atlantic.
Excessive Heat Warnings have been issued for New Castle county in Delaware, Mercer, Gloucester, Camden, and Burlington counties in New Jersey, Delaware, Philadelphia, Chester, Montgomery, and Bucks counties in Pennsylvania. This warning area includes the cities of Wilmington, Trenton, Glassboro, Camden, Cherry Hill, Moorestown, Mount Holly, Media, Philadelphia, West Chester, Kennett Square, Norristown, Lansdale, Morrisville, and Doylestown. The Excessive Heat Warning here is in effect through 8pm Friday.
An Excessive Heat Warning means that a prolonged period of very hot temperatures and high humidity will occur. The combination will create a dangerous situation in which heat related health problems may develop. Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air conditioned environment, stay out of the sun and be sure to check on elderly relatives and neighbors.
Young children and pets should never be left unattended in a vehicle under any circumstance. This is especially true during hot weather when a car`s interior can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes.
Temperatures are forecast to rise into the mid 90s in this region both today and Friday; unfortunately, there won’t be much relief from the heat even at night, with temperatures only expected to drop into the 70s. To make matters worse, high dew points and humidity levels will make it feel worse, with heat index values in the 98-105 range this afternoon and Friday afternoon.
The heat and humidity may cause heat stress during outdoor exertion or extended exposure. Excessive heat can be life-threatening among at-risk populations, such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions.
Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to the early morning or the late evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing and be sure to drink plenty of water.
To reduce your risk during outdoor work the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in a shaded or air conditioned environment. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency and if anyone seems to be experiencing it near you, call 911 immediately.
The excessive heat in this part of the country should linger into the weekend, with no appreciable relief arriving prior to Tuesday.
