Know the Terms

Heat Index

An estimate of how it feels when air temperature and humidity are combined.

Heat Emergency

Based on the heat index forecast, the National Weather Service could issue:



Heat Advisory : Issued when the heat index is expected to reach 95°F to 99°F for two or more consecutive days, or 100°F to 104°F for any length of time.



Excessive Heat Watch : issued when the heat index is forecast to reach or exceed 105°F for at least two consecutive hours in the next 24 to 48 hours.



Excessive Heat Warning : issued when the heat index is forecast to reach or exceed 105°F for at least two consecutive hours within the next 24 hours.

Heat Illness

Heat illness occurs when the body cannot cool down. The most serious forms of heat illness are heat exhaustion and heat stroke. For instance, heat stroke occurs when the body's temperature rises quickly, and can rapidly lead to death. Keeping cool can be hard work for the body. This extra stress on the body can also worsen other health conditions such as heart and lung disease.

Signs of Heat Illness

Serious signs of heat illness include:

•Hot, dry skin OR cold, clammy skin

•Confusion, hallucinations, disorientation

•Unconsciousness or unresponsiveness

•Nausea or vomiting

•Trouble breathing

•Rapid, strong pulse

•Weakness

•Dizziness



Call 911 or go to the emergency room right away if you or someone you know has these symptoms of heat illness:

•Heavy sweating

•Muscle cramps

•Light headedness, feeling faint

•Headache

•Decreased energy

•Loss of appetite, nausea