Heat Index to soar to over 100 degrees.
FREDERICK, MD. (LG) Temperatures are expected to soar into the mid 90’s Friday and the entire weekend. That’s according to the National Weather Service. Officials say the heat index values could reach over 100 degrees.
“We see patients come to the emergency room for dehydration, not a significant amount, but we do”, said Dr. Ludwig Sardarian, Frederick Health Hospital. “The heat hits us pretty quickly, and we are not used to it. So we need to slow down and anticipate and plan for what you might run into leaving the house”.
The National Weather Service issued an excessive heat watch from Saturday afternoon through Saturday evening. “Protection from sunburns, and direct contact from the sun, eye protection, protection with a hat, and having some fluid with you available, is all the things you should consider”, Sardarian continued.
Heat related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat and high humidity events. “If you are going to be outside for a long period of time, if its part of your job or routine, you really need to think about that,” added Sardarian.
Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives, neighbors, pets, and livestock. Officials remind you that you do not leave young children and pets in unattended vehicles. Car interiors will reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes.
By Loretta Gaines