Nashville, Tennessee. According to the National Weather Service, dangerous heat is likely to persist this week, with “feels like” temperatures climbing beyond 105 degrees, triggering Heat Advisories throughout the region.
“We’re really at a risk for heat illness, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke as we go into these next few days, especially working outside during the hottest parts of the day,” Alexandra Holley, a meteorologist with NWS Nashville, told News 2.
While enjoying outdoor summer events, keep in mind that humidity makes it more difficult to stay cool because sweat cannot cool the body down.
“Heat is the number one weather-related killer in the United States, so over tornadoes, over flooding, heat is the number one killer,” Holley stated to me.
If you do venture outside for an extended period of time, remember to pack drink and cold towels, use sunscreen or protective gear, stay near air conditioning, and keep an eye out for signs of heat illness. Heat can also have a greater impact on certain demographics than others.
“The most vulnerable categories are small children, babies, the elderly, individuals with chronic illnesses, and pregnant women, so keep an eye out for those four groups, especially in the coming days, and don’t forget about the pets. Make sure they have enough of water if they’re outside, or give them some water after you’ve gone outside with them,” Holley said.
Also, never leave kids or pets in a heated car. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, around 37 children die each year due to heatstroke after being left inside vehicles.
