Heat Advisory Issued for Area

A heat advisory for the eastern half of Oklahoma and all of Arkansas has been issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) in Tulsa.

The advisory is for 1 to 8 p.m. Wednesday.

The NWS explained a heat advisory is issued when the heat index value is expected to reach 105 to 109 degrees within the next 12 to 24 hours. The heat index is a measure of how hot it really feels when relative humidity is factored in with the actual air temperature. As an example, if the air temperature is 96 degrees F. and the relative humidity is 65 percent, the heat index - how hot is feels - is 121 degrees F.

Such conditions may lead to heat-related illnesses. Those at greatest risk of heat-related illness include:

-infants and children up to four years of age

-people 65 years of age or older

-people who are overweight

-people who overexert during outdoor work or exercise

-people with mental illness, and

-people who are chronically ill or on certain medications.

Signs and symptoms of heat-related illness vary based on the severity of the illness.

-Heat rash symptoms: red bumps on the skin, a feeling of prickly or itchy skin.

-Heat dizziness or lightheadedness and fainting.

-Heat cramps symptoms: significant sweating, involuntary spasms of the muscles in the body, most often affecting the legs.

-Heat exhaustion symptoms: nausea and vomiting, headach, muscle cramps, weakness, and profuse sweating.

How to avoid heat-related illnesses.

-Avoid strenuous activity in hot, humid weather or during the hottest part of the day (between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.).

-Drink plenty of water before, during, and after exercise.

-Drink on schedule - every 15 minutes while exercising.

-Drink rehydration drinks, which are absorbed as quickly as water but also replace sugar, sodium, and other nutrients.

-Check urine. Urine should be clear to pale yellow, and there should be a large amount.

-Do not spend much time in the sun. If possible, exercise or work outside during the cooler times of the day. Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and a hat or use an umbrella for shade.

-Stay cool as much as possible. Take frequent breaks in the shade, by a fan, or in air-conditioning. Cool skin by spraying water over the body. Take a cool bath or shower one or two times a day.

-Do not drink alcohol. It increases the risk of dehydration.

Sally Maxwell, Senior News Director

For more news stories stay tuned to The MIX 105.1 or visit www.kxmx.com