Be Prepared for Extreme Heat

In most of the United States, extreme heat is a long period (2 to 3 days) of high heat and humidity with temperatures above 90 degrees.

All of this information can be found on the hazard's Information Sheet.

Quick Facts

• Greater risk (disabled, elderly, children).
• Can happen anywhere.
• Humidity increases the feeling of heat as measured by a heat index.

Words to Know

Humidity:

• The amount of water vapor in the air. Humidity is invisible and can make sweating less effective.

Temperature:

• The measure of how hot or cold something is.

Heat Stroke:

• When the body temperature gets too high and can make someone breathe fast, feel dizzy, throw up, get headaches, or feel weak. This can be deadly.

Hyperthermia:

• A dangerous condition where the body absorbs more heat than it can get rid of.

If you are under an extreme heat warning: 

• Find air conditioning, if possible.
• Avoid strenuous activities.
• Watch for heat illness.
• Wear light clothing.
• Check on family members and neighbors.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Watch for heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
• Never leave people or pets in a closed car.