Excessive Heat Warning
Extreme heat index making it feel very hot, typically above 105 °F (41 °C) for 3 hours or more during the day for two consecutive days or above 115 °F (46 °C) at any time.
Heat Advisory
A heat advisory means that a period of unusually high temperatures is expected. The combination of excessive heat and humidity will create a situation in which heat related illnesses and fatalities are possible. Extreme heat index making it feel hot, typically between 105 °F to 115 °F for up to 3 hours during the day and at or above 80 °F at night for two consecutive nights.
What Health Officials Suggest for Hot, Humid Days
- Drink plenty of water – don’t wait until you are thirsty.
- Stay inside in air conditioning whenever possible (movie theaters, malls, etc.) if you do not have it at home.
- Avoid beverages with alcohol, caffeine and sugar; they will dehydrate you.
- Eat light meals.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing and a hat.
- Stay in the shade.
- Limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours.
- Check on neighbors if they are older, in poor health or live alone.
- Pet owners should make sure animals have plenty of water and a place to get out of the sun.
Source: City of Columbus
Here are a number of initiatives to help improve our air quality:
- Don’t let vehicles idle unnecessarily.
- Consider using public transportation.
- Consider car pooling.
- Do not burn outdoor yard waste.
- If you heat your home with wood fireplaces/stoves; burn only dry, clean wood using proper techniques for burning.
- Drive less; combine your errands.
- Wait to travel during cooler evening hours, if possible.
- Don’t paint or use aerosol sprays until temperatures cool off.
- Wait for cooler morning or late-evening hours to refuel your vehicle.
- Collectively, small steps taken by everybody can lead to significant benefits for our health and environment.
