Excessive Heat Warning Issued For Tucson

TUCSON — The National Weather Service has put an excessive heat warning into effect, that will remain until 8 p.m. Thursday, June 8 throughout the Tucson Metro region.

According to the warning, afternoon temperatures will reach "dangerously hot" conditions between 102 and 109 degrees Fahrenheit.

A heat warning is issued anytime the Heat Index reports daytime and night temperatures that are high for regional standards.

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are two common heat-related illnesses brought on by excessive heat. Pima County has shared the symptoms, signs and appropriate response for these heat conditions on their website.

Heat Exhaustion

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include:

• Weakness
• Tiredness
• Blurred vision
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Muscle cramps
• Nausea/vomiting
• Fainting

Signs of heat exhaustion include:

• Extreme sweating
• Rapid pulse rate, pulse may be weak
• Pale face
• Slight stumbling
• Normal to slightly elevated temperature
• Shallow rapid breathing

What to do if you have heat exhaustion:

• Lay person down flat in a cool area
• Loosen clothing
• Give plenty of water or electrolyte fluids to drink if conscious
• Take a cool shower or bath
• Call 911 if the person vomits, refuses water, loses consciousness, or is not improved in an hour (can progress to heat stroke)
• Person should not return to strenuous activity in heat that day

Heat Stroke

Symptoms of heat stoke include:

• Chills
• Restlessness
• Irritability
• Throbbing headache
• Loss of coordination
• Confusion

Signs of heat stroke include:

• Red face
• Hot dry skin (no sweating)
• Strong rapid pulse
• Disorientation or erratic behavior
• High body temperature (greater than103°F)
• Shivering
• Collapse
• Seizures
• Unconsciousness or coma

What to do if you have a heat stroke:

• Call 911 or make arrangements for hospital transport
• Immediately move to shady/cooler area and start cooling person by loosening clothing and applying cool water or cloths soaked in cool water
• Do not give victim fluids to drink

Prevent Heat Illness

The National Weather Service suggests taking the safety precautions below during an excessive heat advisory.

• Stay indoors and seek air-conditioned buildings.
• Drink water, more than usual, and avoid dehydrating alcoholic, sugary, or caffeinated drinks. Dress for the heat - lightweight and light-colored clothing.
• Eat small meals and eat more often.
• Monitor those with a higher vulnerability to heat, including small children.
• Check in on family, friends, and neighbors, especially the elderly.
• If engaging in outdoor activity, take longer and more frequent breaks and avoid the hottest parts of the day.
• Never leave kids or pets unattended in cars.
• Public cooling shelters are available in some areas.
• Consult county officials for more details, which may include guidance for proper social distancing measures.