Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

The National Weather Service (Newport/Morehead City) predicts the heat index for Friday, June 30 through Wednesday, July 5 to be between 100 and 110 degrees. 

“Heat indices of 100 to 110 are forecast beginning this upcoming weekend, extending through the July 4th holiday,” according to the National Weather Service website as of Thursday, June 29. 

A heat index combines the effects of temperature and humidity to help people gauge how hot it would feel to them even under shade. The National Weather Service is forecasting temperatures Friday through Monday to be in the 90’s during the day and 70’s at night.

To prepare for several days of extreme heat and outdoor events during the July 4 holiday week, the American Red Cross advises people to stay hydrated to prevent heat illness. They recommend drinking ¾ of a gallon of water daily; however, everyone’s needs may vary. To remain hydrated throughout the day, avoid sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic beverages. If persistent sweat occurs, combine snacks with a sports drink to replace salt and minerals lost in sweat. 

The American Red Cross recommends cool showers, baths and staying in an air conditioned place as the best ways to stay cool in addition to wearing lightweight, loose clothing. 

The Centers for Disease Control provides a guide on what to do if someone exhibits symptoms of a heat-related illness like a heat stroke or heat exhaustion. 

Symptoms of a heat stroke include: High body temperature (103°F or higher); hot, red, dry, or damp skin; fast, strong pulse; headache; dizziness; nausea; confusion and/or losing consciousness (passing out). If someone is having a heat stroke, call 911, because a heat stroke is a medical emergency. Move the person to a cooler place, and help them lower their body temperature with cool cloths or a cool bath. Do not give the person anything to drink. 

Heat exhaustion looks like: heavy sweating; cold, pale and clammy skin; fast or weak pulse; nausea or vomiting; muscle cramps; tiredness or weakness; dizziness; headache and/or fainting (passing out). If someone is experiencing heat exhaustion, they need to be moved to a cool place, loosen their clothes, put on cool, wet cloths or take a cool bath and sip water. If symptoms get worse, last longer than one hour or if the person vomits, then medical attention is required.