Heat and Humidity Continue Today

Today's weather calls for a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms before noon. But those showers won't do much to cool things off. Temperatures are expected to reach 91, so experts caution that there's danger in excessive heat exposure. 

The elderly, infants, young children, pregnant and nursing women and those with pre-existing illnesses are most prone to heat related problems.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that older adults stay indoors to avoid excessive heat exposure. "More people in this country died from extreme heat than from hurricanes, lightning, tornadoes, floods, and earthquakes combined," according to the CDC.

The Summit County Health District advises people older than 50 are more susceptible increased heat, said spokeswoman Chris Partis. The agency recommends that older people remain inside where there is air conditioning, if not at home then in public spaces like malls, grocery stores, senior centers and the library, especially during the day. 

The district also recommends people. 

• Should Not walk long distances, lift heavy objects, or do other strenuous things.

• Should drink lots of water and other clear drinks that don’t contain alcohol or caffeine (these can “dry you out”). Remember: If your urine is a light yellow color, you’re drinking enough water.  If it’s darker yellow, you need to drink more.

• Should take cool showers, baths, or sponge baths.

• Should wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.  A good choice is clothing made of natural fabrics like cotton.

• Should wear hats.

• Should stay out of the sun.

The Bath Township Fire Department  lists the following signs of heat-related trouble.

• Heat Exhaustion Signs – Heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea and/or vomiting, fainting. The skin may be cool and moist. The victim's pulse rate will be fast and weak, and breathing will be fast and shallow.
• Heat Stroke  - Warning signs of heat stroke vary but may include red, hot and dry skin (no sweating), a dry swollen tongue, rapid pulse, throbbing headache, dizziness, confusion, nausea and eventual unconsciousness.  This is a medical emergency, call 9-1-1 immediately.