Extreme Weather Alert: Residents Urged To Take Precautions

The National Weather Service in Mount Holly has issued a heat advisory, which is in effect from noon today to 8 p.m. this evening.

A very hot air mass moved into the area on Sunday, July 4, and temperatures promise to be even hotter today.

Record temperatures of near 100 degrees are forecast for the region, with the heat index rising to 100 to 105 degrees this afternoon. The temperature is not expected to dip below 90 degrees until after 8 p.m. 

Similar heat index values could also occur on Wednesday afternoon, which may result in an extension of the heat advisory for one more day, according to the National Weather Service.

The heat should ease on Thursday as the onshore flow increases and the hot ridge of high pressure sags farther to the southwest. Although, it will remain quite humid and warm. A cold front from the northwest is anticipated to arrive during the weekend, with current AccuWeather forecasts calling for highs in the mid-80s on Saturday, July 10 and Sunday, July 11.

Precautionary Actions

The Red Cross reports that in recent years, excessive heat has caused more deaths than all other weather events, including floods. To take precautions and be prepared, consult the information provided below by the National Weather Service or the attached flier from the Red Cross with tips for heat safety.

The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity will combine to create a situation in which heat illnesses are possible. The National Weather Service recommends to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun and check up on relatives and neighbors.

Coaches, trainers, camp counselors and lifeguards should remain alert for signs of heat exhaustion and or heat stroke. The heat could affect anyone, and under the conditions, those in authority should consider postponing any strenuous activities or workouts. 

Residents are also recommended to keep their pets in a cool location and provide them with plenty of water.