WHAT IS THE HEAT INDEX (HI)?
The Heat Index (HI) is a measurement that combines the air temperature with humidity to
determine how hot the weather feels. With high humidity, the body retains more
heat because evaporation is slower. It is similar to the “wind chill index”
which is used during cold weather. It is
measured only if the temperature is greater than 80 degrees Fahrenheit and
humidity is 40% or higher. If the air temperature is 96°F and the relative
humidity is 65%, for example, the heat index is 121°F. The HI is calculated for shady conditions
with light wind. The HI is even higher
in places with full sun or strong wind.
WHY IS THE HI IMPORTANT?
When the
HI is high, the risk of a heat-related disorder increases, especially for those
who are outdoors (or indoors without air conditioning) for long periods and
doing challenging activities. High risk groups such as children, elderly, and
those with certain health conditions (asthma, heart conditions, obesity) should
be especially careful in such conditions.
WHAT ARE SOME HEAT-RELATED CONDITIONS?
Heat Stroke happens when the body
can’t cool itself down and body temperature rises quickly. It can cause death or disability if not treated immediately. Warning signs can include: body temperature
above 103 degrees, hot skin with no sweating, fast pulse, headache, dizziness,
nausea, confusion, or unconsciousness. If you see someone with these signs,
take them to a shady area, cool them down with water until their body
temperature reaches 101-102 degrees and contact emergency medical
services. Do not give them any alcohol.
Heat Exhaustion is milder than heat rash and can happen with several days of exposure to high temperatures, especially without proper hydration. It is most common in the elderly, those with high blood pressure, and anyone working in hot conditions. Warning signs include: heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting, fainting. If untreated, heat exhaustion can become heat stroke. If someone has heat exhaustion, they should drink cool (non-alcoholic) drinks, rest, take a cool shower or bath, use air conditioning, and wear light clothes.
Heat Exhaustion is milder than heat rash and can happen with several days of exposure to high temperatures, especially without proper hydration. It is most common in the elderly, those with high blood pressure, and anyone working in hot conditions. Warning signs include: heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting, fainting. If untreated, heat exhaustion can become heat stroke. If someone has heat exhaustion, they should drink cool (non-alcoholic) drinks, rest, take a cool shower or bath, use air conditioning, and wear light clothes.
Heat Rash is most common in young children. It happens with
excessive sweating during hot weather.
It looks like small blisters and usually happens on the chest and in
body creases (elbows neck, groin, etc.
The best treatment is cool air and keeping the area dry. Powder might
help discomfort.
Heat Cramps are muscle pains after difficult activity in hot
conditions, especially with heavy sweating.
They happen from a loss of salt in the muscles. If you have heat cramps, stop activity and
drink a clear juice or sports drink. Stay
in a cool place and don’t return to the activity until a few hours after the
cramps go away. If the cramps don’t go
away in an hour, get medical help.
HOW CAN I FIND OUT THE HI?
You can find a map of the US with general HI information at:
Type your city or town in the search field for more specific
details and heat advisory information.
HOW CAN I PROTECT MYSELF AGAINS HEAT-RELATED CONDITIONS
1. Drink more liquid than your thirst suggests. During difficult activity in the heat, drink 16-32 ounces of water every hour.
2. Avoid alcohol during outdoor activities in high HI conditions.
3. Take a cool shower or bath if you don’t have air conditioning. Fans provide comfort, but do not protect against heat-related conditions.
4. Wear lightweight, loose clothing.
5. Pace yourself during activities.
6. Use sunscreen as directed.
1. Drink more liquid than your thirst suggests. During difficult activity in the heat, drink 16-32 ounces of water every hour.
2. Avoid alcohol during outdoor activities in high HI conditions.
3. Take a cool shower or bath if you don’t have air conditioning. Fans provide comfort, but do not protect against heat-related conditions.
4. Wear lightweight, loose clothing.
5. Pace yourself during activities.
6. Use sunscreen as directed.
This summer, as the temperature heats up, check the heat
index and take steps to stay safe during work and play.
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