Summertime Heat Preparedness Information
Summertime in Iowa means two things: heat and humidity. These two weather parameters combine to create the Heat Index (Apparent Temperature), which is an accurate measure of how hot it really feels when relative humidity is combine with the actual air temperature. The combination of extreme heat and humidity conspire to tax the human body beyond its natural cooling abilities. Heat related deaths account for many deaths and injuries each year. Additional information on Heat Waves as Killers can be found here and here at the main NWS Summertime Preparedness webpage.
Some safety tips during heat waves include:
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Drink plenty of water or other non-alcohol fluids.
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Slow down during the heat of the day.
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Dress in light colored, light weight clothing.
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Spend more time indoors.
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Don't get sunburned (Ultra-violet forecasts).
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Check frequently on the elderly, youth, and pets during heat waves.