Heat Advisory Issued for Howard County

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — A heat advisory is in effect for Howard County and parts of the region from noon to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 11.

During a heat advisory, high temperatures and high humidity create an environment where heat-related illnesses are possible. People without air conditioning or those working outside are at risk for heat-related illness. (See tips for staying safe in the heat at the end of the article.)

It will feel like 105 degrees on the heat index, with actual temperatures in the mid 90s, according to the National Weather Service.

These areas are under the advisory:

• Anne Arundel County
• Charles County
• Baltimore City (southern)
• Howard County (central and southeast)
• Montgomery County (central and southeast)
• Prince George's County
• Parts of Virginia
• Washington, D.C.

Heat stroke, the most serious heat-related illness, can be fatal if not treated immediately. It occurs when the body's temperature rises rapidly and the sweating mechanism fails, leading to overheating without a way to cool down.

Symptoms include confusion; slurred speech; seizures; hot, dry skin or extreme sweating; altered mental status; very high body temperature; and loss of consciousness/coma. If someone exhibits signs of heat-related illness, move the person to a cool, shaded area and call 911.

How to Stay Safe in the Heat

• Dress for the heat. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light colors reflect away some of the sun's energy. It is also a good idea to wear hats or to use an umbrella.
• Drink water. Carry water or juice with you and drink continuously even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which dehydrate the body. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed by a physician.
• Eat small meals and eat more often. Avoid high-protein foods, which increase metabolic heat.
• Slow down. Avoid strenuous activity. If you must do strenuous activity, do it during the coolest part of the day, which is usually in the morning between 4 and 7 a.m.
• Stay inside when possible. If air-conditioning is not available, go to the lowest floor out of the sunshine. Remember that electric fans do not cool; they simply circulate the air.
• Be a good neighbor. During heat waves, check in on elderly residents in your neighborhood and those who do not have air conditioning.

Temperatures are not going down anytime soon. Through Sunday, a hot and humid airmass will make it feel like 105 on the heat index, weather officials say.

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.