The first major heat wave in on the way this weekend. National Weather Service meteorologist Michaela Wood tells KLIN News an Extreme Heat Watch is in effect Friday through Sunday. “Were looking at high temperatures potentially hitting the triple digits. Looks like we’re sitting right around 101 degrees for a high through all those days.
In addition, heat index values could reach up to 110. Wood says some strong southerly winds throughout the weekend could provide some relief. After a high of 95 on Monday, Wood says temperatures will slide back into the 80’s next week and rain chances return.
The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department is urging residents to prepare for the oppressive heat. “High heat and humidity can cause heat-related illnesses,” says Health Director Kerry Kernen. “We’re fortunate to have a little lead time and we can use it to take steps to prepare and help lessen the impact of heat on our health and our community, if temperatures continue to rise.”
Kernen says anyone can suffer from heat-related illnesses and some people are at greater risk than others including:
- Infants, young children, pregnant people and older adults whose bodies are less able to adapt to heat
- People with disabilities or certain health conditions, such as heart disease, asthma, diabetes, obesity, and mental health conditions
- Outdoor workers and people who exercise outside
- People without air conditioning or water to drink
- Pets, service or support animals and livestock
Kernen says know your neighbors and be ready to check on them along with family and friends who may be at higher risk or who live alone. She also recommends learning more about the signs of heat-related illness and treatment and know where you can stay cool in case you need to go there.
Locations could include recreation centers, Lincoln City Libraries and senior centers. Make sure pets and livestock that live outdoors will have plenty of fresh, cool water and shade and have a plan to bring pets indoors if needed. In addition, drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room and stay out of the sun.
You can access the Extreme Heat website by clicking here.