If you thought Saturday was hot, Sunday and Monday’s heat will take this weather to a whole other level, according to the National Weather Service.
The NWS has issued an excessive heat warning for parts of southeastern Pennsylvania and the Lehigh Valley for “dangerously hot weather” with the potential to cause heat-related illnesses, especially in the elderly and very young.
The excessive heat warning is in effect from 8 a.m. Sunday through 8 p.m. Monday, when high temperatures will reach the upper 90s and heat indices–a measurement of heat and humidity that is an indicator of how hot it actually feels–will be between 103 and 108 degrees, the NWS said.
Those who will be working or spending a significant amount of time outside should take extra precautions due to the heat, and if possible reschedule planned strenuous activities for the early morning or evening hours.
If you must work during the day, to reduce the risk of heatstroke while performing outdoor work the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends taking frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned places.
“Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke,” the NWS advised. “Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing when possible, and drink plenty of water.”
To avoid heat-related illness it is also recommended to:
- Stay in an air conditioned environment if possible
- Stay out of the sun if outdoors
- Check on elderly relatives and neighbors
- Never leave young children and pets unattended in vehicles, because interior car temperatures can reach lethal levels within a matter of minutes
Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location, and help for them should be sought by calling 911 immediately.
Although the excessive heat warning is only in effect Sunday and Monday, the heat wave is forecast to continue through the Independence Day holiday and beyond.
The high temperatures Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday are forecast to be 95, 92 and 91 degrees, respectively.
By Friday and Saturday temperatures are expected to fall back to a more seasonal level, with highs in the mid to upper 80s.
