Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – The National Weather Service (NWS) in Mobile/Pensacola has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for today, August 18, 2024, covering much of the Gulf Coast. The warning is in effect from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with heat indices expected to reach between 110°F and 115°F in the warning area and between 105°F and 110°F in the surrounding advisory areas.

The extreme heat poses a significant health risk, especially for vulnerable populations, including the elderly, children, and those with preexisting health conditions. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to heat-related illnesses such as cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.

Residents and visitors across the Gulf Coast are urged to take precautions to protect themselves from the dangerous heat. The risk of heat-related illnesses increases with prolonged exposure to these conditions, especially in areas under the Excessive Heat Warning.

To stay safe during the heatwave, the following precautions are strongly recommended:

1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid sugary, caffeinated, or alcoholic beverages, as they can dehydrate you.
2. Seek Shade or Air Conditioning: Stay indoors during peak heat hours, preferably in an air-conditioned environment. If you do not have access to air conditioning, consider visiting public places.
3. Limit Outdoor Activities: Avoid strenuous activities, particularly during the hottest parts of the day. If outdoor work or exercise is unavoidable, take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
4. Wear Light Clothing: Opt for lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing to help your body stay cool.
5. Check on Vulnerable Individuals: Ensure that elderly relatives, neighbors, and those with health conditions are safe and have access to a cool environment.
6. Protect Your Pets: Ensure pets have access to plenty of fresh water and a shaded or air-conditioned space. Never leave pets in a parked vehicle, even with the windows cracked, as temperatures inside a car can quickly reach deadly levels.
7. Never Leave Children in Vehicles: The temperature inside a car can soar to life-threatening levels within minutes, even with the windows slightly open. Always double-check that everyone has exited the vehicle.
8. Know the Signs of Heat-Related Illnesses: Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which include heavy sweating, weakness, confusion, dizziness, nausea, and fainting. Seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms occur.

Alongside the oppressive heat, there is a slight potential for strong to severe storms later in the day. These storms could bring gusty winds, lightning, and heavy rainfall. Residents are advised to monitor weather updates and be prepared for sudden changes.

For more information on the heatwave and to stay updated on weather conditions, visit the National Weather Service website at weather.gov/mob.

By following these safety guidelines and staying informed, residents and visitors to the Gulf Coast can reduce their risk of heat-related illnesses.