The heat is on: Make sure you're prepared

After a mild but very wet spring - the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Agency (NOAA) reports that the Dallas-Fort Worth area has received 28.74 inches of rain so far in 2024, compared to the normal rate of 18.40 inches by this time in the year - temperatures have started their steady rise that residents expect in June. The last time the high temperature was reported below 90 degrees was on June 11 when the high was 83 degrees.

The Weather Channel and the Old Farmer's Almanac agree that this trend will continue, particularly over the next two months. With only a limited number of exceptions, the high temperatures are expected to be in the mid-90s with occasional rain.

Temperature and Rainfall charts for Dallas-Fort Worth, Jan 1 - Jun 16, 2024Photo byNOAA

Even though the 100s are not yet upon the area, the temperatures are such that they can quickly become dangerous. Recognizing this, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently posted on X (formerly Twitter) how to combat both heat exhaustion and heat stroke, both of which can become deadly.

The heat takes approximately 1,220 lives each year in the United States. In most cases, these deaths are preventable by following simple steps as or before symptoms occur.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include dizziness, nausea, and weakness. Heat stroke provides confusion, headache, and unconsciousness. Left untreated, either condition can quickly escalate to require hospitalization. It is often up to others to notice the symptoms in a victim as the confusion and mental fogginess that come along with the conditions inhibit the victim's ability to recognize them on their own.

Beat the Heat posterPhoto byCenters for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

While anyone can succumb to the heat, there are particular groups that are more-susceptible to the effects and who need to be watched closely:

• Older adults
• Infants and children
• Those with chronic conditions
• People without air conditioning
• Athletes
• Outdoor workers
• Pregnant women

Extreme Heat graphicPhoto byCenters for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Suggestions made by the CDC for preventing heat-related issues include wearing loose-fitting clothing, staying indoors whenever possible, pacing yourself, wearing sunscreen, avoiding hot and heavy meals, and staying hydrated. A full list of prevention methods can be found on the CDC website. Those who do not have air conditioning should reach out to their local health department to inquire about heat shelters.

People are not the only ones in danger. Pets can be affected by the heat, as well.

Pets should be kept indoors and in air conditioning whenever possible. They should also be kept hydrated, with water kept in a shady area. Similarly, it should be remembered that, unlike most people, pets do not wear shoes when walking on hot pavement. Pavement materials hold the heat from the sun and become hotter than the air around them.

Pavement temperaturesPhoto byWHAS11

As the temperatures remain high, particularly when combined with relatively high humidity, precautions need to be taken to prevent heat illnesses. Those who may be susceptible should also be monitored closely for any signs of affect.

To learn more about how heat affects the body, including tips on preventing or responding to a heat illness, visit the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/extreme-heat/about/.