Extreme heat often referred to as a "heatwave", is an extended period of high temperatures usually accompanied by high humidity. Extreme heat kills by pushing the human body beyond its limits. In extreme heat and high humidity, evaporation is slowed and the body must work extra hard to maintain a normal temperature. Older adults, young children, and those who are sick or overweight are more likely to be severely affected by extreme heat.
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| Limit strenuous outdoor activity during the afternoon hours. | Don't just look at the temperature also look at the heat index. |
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| Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. | Drink plenty of water before, during, and after outside activities. |
Heat Advisory—Take Action! A Heat Advisory is issued within 12 hours of the onset of extremely dangerous heat conditions. The general rule of thumb for this Advisory is when the maximum heat index temperature is expected to be 100° or higher for at least 2 days, and night time air temperatures will not drop below 75°; however, these criteria vary across the country, especially for areas that are not used to dangerous heat conditions. Take precautions to avoid heat illness. If you don't take precautions, you may become seriously ill or even die.
Excessive Heat Watches—Be Prepared! Heat watches are issued when conditions are favorable for an excessive heat event in the next 24 to 72 hours. A Watch is used when the risk of a heat wave has increased but its occurrence and timing is still uncertain.
Excessive Heat Warning—Take Action! An Excessive Heat Warning is issued within 12 hours of the onset of extremely dangerous heat conditions. The general rule of thumb for this Warning is when the maximum heat index temperature is expected to be 105° or higher for at least 2 days and night time air temperatures will not drop below 75°; however, these criteria vary across the country, especially for areas not used to extreme heat conditions. If you don't take precautions immediately when conditions are extreme, you may become seriously ill or even die.
- Before Extreme Heat
- During Extreme Heat
- After Extreme Heat
- Heat First Aid
Be Weather-Ready: Check the forecast regularly to see if you're at risk for extreme heat. Listen to local news or check the Norman National Weather Service webpage to stay informed about heat watches and warnings.
Sign up for MSUAlerts: The number one way to receive an emergency alert from MSU Texas is through an MSU Alert. Visit MSU ALERT for more information on how to sign up and keep your information up to date.
Download MSU Safety App: Safety starts with you! Download the MSU Safety app available on the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store. The app lets you have access to critical information right in your hand when it matters most.
Drink Water: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after the activity. Stay away from caffeinated drinks as they dehydrate.
Stay Weather-Ready: Continue to listen to local news and the National Weather Service to stay updated about heat watches and warnings.
Stay Inside: During the hottest parts of the day, afternoon and evening hours, try and stay inside.
Drink Water: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after the activity. Stay away from caffeinated drinks as they do dehydrate.
Eat: Eat a well-balanced, light meal.
Wear: Wear light-colored and loose-fitting clothes.
Never leave a child or pet in a car!
Stay Informed: Continue to listen to local news or the National Weather Service to stay updated about heat watches and warnings.
Drink Water: Continue to drink plenty of water to keep hydrated; also, check on your pets and make sure they are staying hydrated.
Symptoms:
- Heavy sweating.
- Weakness.
- Cool, pale, clammy skin.
- Fast, weak pulse.
- Possible muscle cramps.
- Dizziness.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Fainting.
First Aid:
- Move the person to a cooler environment.
- Lay the person down and loosen clothing.
- Apply cool, wet cloths to as much of the body as possible.
- Fan or move victim to an air-conditioned room.
- Offer sips of water.
- If a person starts to vomit more than once, seek immediate medical attention.
Symptoms:
- Altered mental state.
- One or more of the following symptoms: throbbing headache, confusion, nausea, dizziness, shallow breathing.
- Body temperature above 103°F.
- Hot, red, dry, or moist skin.
- Rapid and strong pulse.
- Faints or loses consciousness.
First Aid:
- Call 9-1-1 Immediately. Heat Stroke is a Medical Emergency and if delayed it can have fatal results.
- Move the victim to a cooler, preferably air-conditioned, environment.
- Reduce body temperature with cool cloths or cold bath.
- Use a fan if heat index temperatures are below the high 90's. A fan can make you hotter at higher temperatures.
- Do NOT give fluids.
