CINCINNATI -- Sweltering temperatures paired with high humidity levels will lead to an Excessive Heat Warning for the Tri-State, which could pose some serious health risks.
An Excessive Heat Warning begins at 2 p.m. on Thursday until 8 p.m. Saturday. An Excessive Heat Warning is defined by two to three days of high heat and humidity with temperatures at about 90 degrees.
If you do not have anywhere to go during the day, you can visit a cooling center — an air-conditioned space open to the public — in the Cincinnati area .
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About 175 Americans die each year from extreme heat, according to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
The heat index is expected to soar to 110 degrees over the weekend, which could increase the risk of health problems, especially for elderly people and young children.
The Ohio Department of Health recommended increasing fluid intake and monitoring or limiting outdoor activities to beat the heat.
In the midst of a heat wave, children and pets left in vehicles are at risk for heat-related illnesses or death as the interior temperature of a car can rise up to 20 degrees in just ten minutes.
If you must be outside, wear loose fitting, light-colored clothing and keep strenuous activity to a minimum during the hottest parts of the day (11 a.m. to 2 p.m.).
How to identify and treat a heat stroke:
- Heat stroke is a life-threatening situation. Call 911 immediately.
- Symptoms include a body temperature of 103 degrees or higher; red, hot dry or moist skin, rapid and strong pulse; and possible unconsciousness.
- Cool the person by any means possible, such as spraying person with water from a garden hose or by placing the person in a cool tub of water.
Click here for more information on how to stay cool and safe in extreme heat.
