The National Weather Service issued an updated weather alert at 8:30 a.m. on Friday for high temperatures until 6 p.m. The alert is for Inland Bryan, Coastal Bryan, Inland Chatham, Coastal Chatham, Inland Liberty, Coastal Liberty, Inland McIntosh and Coastal McIntosh as well as Effingham and Long counties.
“The combination of temperatures warming into the lower to mid 90s with moderate levels of humidity will produce heat indices near 105 this afternoon across much of the South Carolina Lowcountry and Southeast Georgia. Those participating in outside September 11th memorial activities should be prepared for this level of heat and humidity today. Scattered showers and thunderstorms will produce relief in some areas later today. Cloud-to-ground lightning will pose a risk to anyone caught outdoors. Be prepared to seek shelter should thunderstorms approach. Remember, When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors,” adds the NWS.
The NWS comments, “Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sunshine, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Take extra precautions when outside. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing. Try to limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Take action when you see symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Lightning can strike 15 miles away from a thunderstorm. Seek safe shelter inside a building or vehicle should thunderstorms approach.”
Heat safety: A guide to staying safe in high temperatures
• Stay hydrated: Remember to drink plenty of fluids.
• Seek cool shelter: Stay indoors in an air-conditioned room to keep cool.
• Avoid sun exposure: Avoid direct sun exposure, protect yourself and check on vulnerable relatives and neighbors.
• Child and pet safety: Take every precaution to never leave young children and pets alone in vehicles, especially in extreme heat when car interiors can quickly become hazardous.
• Caution outdoors: If you work or spend time outside, be sure to take additional safety measures.
• Select the ideal time: If possible, move strenuous activities to early morning or evening for more favorable conditions.
• Recognize heat-related issues: Learn to identify the warning signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
• Dress for comfort: Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing.
Additional recommendations for outdoor workers:
• The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas for outdoor workers.
• If someone succumbs to the heat, promptly relocate them to a cool, shaded location.
• In emergencies, call 911 for immediate assistance.
These NWS heat safety directives are essential for safeguarding your well-being when facing high temperatures. Stay well-informed and take the necessary precautions to shield yourself and others from the potential hazards of extreme heat.
Source: The National Weather Service