Heat advisory expected to last all week in Volusia, Flagler: Tips to beat the heat

DAYTONA BEACH  — As August dog days unfold, summer’s extreme heat shows no sign of cooling down.

A heat advisory was issued through 7 p.m. Monday by the National Weather Service in Melbourne for areas throughout east Central Florida as far south as Stuart north of Daytona Beach to Flagler County and inland to Groveland in Lake County.

In Volusia County, the advisory calls for afternoon highs in the upper 90s, with peak heat index values approaching 112 degrees across much of the area. On the beaches, there’s also a moderate risk of rip currents, the advisory states.

In Flagler County, the advisory calls for dangerously hot conditions with equally high temperatures and heat index values up to 115 expected.

If you’re outside, the weather service advises that you take measures to protect yourself from the heat and sun, to wear protection, including a hat and sunscreen, to stay well-hydrated, and take frequent indoor breaks as needed, preferably in an air-conditioned room.

Also, the advisory offers a reminder to never leave children or pets in a vehicle unattended for any length of time.

Extreme heat expected throughout the week

Near to above normal temperatures and high humidity are expected to yield triple-digit heat index values throughout the week, with peak heat indexes forecast to exceed 105, according to the forecast.

Heat index readings could be as high 110, according to the NWS. Likewise, the moderate risk for dangerous rip currents is anticipated at all central Florida Atlantic beaches early in the week.

Forecast also calls for storms

Scattered thunderstorms are forecast on Monday as the east coast sea breeze develops and moves inland. Afternoon storms that develop will push east towards the coast and are expected to dissipate just after sunset. A few stronger storms are possible, producing frequent lightning strikes, gusty winds of 40-50 mph and locally heavy downpours.

More: Beat the heat: Good spots to stay cool during heat wave in Volusia, Flagler

Scattered to numerous afternoon and evening storms are forecast through the week as a moist air mass remains in place across the region.

Here are some important things to know about weathering the heat wave:

Tips to stay cool

The Florida Department of Health in Volusia County offers these tips to beat the heat:

• Wear lightweight, light-colored and loose-fitting clothing.

• Stay indoors in air conditioning, especially during the hottest part of the day.

• Schedule outdoor activities for early morning or later evening to avoid being outside during the hottest part of the day.

• Wear sunscreen.

• Stay hydrated.

• Replace salts and minerals by drinking sports drinks after excessive sweating.

• Stay away from sugary or alcoholic drinks.

• Never leave children, older adults, or pets alone in a car.

Know the signs

Volusia County’s 14 public library branches have been designated as cooling stations during the stretch of extreme heat. Most of them are open on Saturdays, too, if you need a break from the heat.

Volusia County offers these tips to determine if you’re suffering from heat-related illnesses:

Heat exhaustion. It begins with heavy sweating, cold and clammy skin, nausea or vomiting, muscle cramps weakness, dizziness, headache, and possible fainting.

If you experience these symptoms, move to a cool place, loosen your clothes, put cool, wet clothes on your body, or take a cool shower, and sip water. Seek medical attention immediately if you are vomiting, your symptoms get worse, or symptoms last longer than one hour.

Heat stroke. This is a medical emergency. It’s characterized by a body temperature of 103 degrees or higher, hot and red skin, rapid pulse, headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion and possible loss of consciousness.

Call 911 right away, move the person to a cooler place, and lower the person’s temperature with cool cloths or a cool bath. Do not give the person anything to drink.

Don't forget to take care of pets

Volusia County Animal Services recommends that pet owners follow these safety tips.

• Keep plenty of clean, cool drinking water available at all times.

• Keep your pet indoors during the hottest times of the day.

• Never leave your pet in a parked car, even for a minute.

• Protect your pet from the sun. If your pet must stay in the yard (instead of the cool indoors, which is recommended), make sure there is adequate shade and ventilation.

• To help your pet stay cool, clip coats short, but not shaven. Sunburn is a danger to animals, especially light-colored animals.

• Dog paw pads burn easily, so avoid hot surfaces such as asphalt on hot days. Exercise pets in the morning or evening when it’s cooler.

• The key symptoms of overheating in pets are excessive panting, stupor and collapse. Other symptoms include difficulty breathing, increased heart and respiratory rate, drooling, vomiting, bloody diarrhea and seizures.

• If your pet is overcome by the heat, place a cool, wet towel on the animal. When the towel becomes warm, replace it with another cool towel. Never immerse a pet in ice-cold water as it may cause shock.

This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Heat advisory in Volusia, Flagler could last all week