National Weather Service Issues Excessive Heat Warning

(Dodge County) The National Weather Service has upgraded a Heat Advisory to an Excessive Heat Warning for several Wisconsin counties. Among the counties included: Dodge, Columbia, Fond du Lac, Green Lake and Marquette counties. The warning is in effect from 10am Friday morning to 7am Saturday morning. Temperatures will reach the mid-90s and heat index values will be from 105 to 110 degrees.

Follow these tips from Dodge County Health and Human Services to stay safe during extreme heat:

– Stay in air conditioning. When possible, stay in air conditioning on hot days. If you do not have air conditioning, head to libraries, malls, and other public spaces to keep cool.

– Check on loved ones. Be sure to check on older friends and neighbors who live alone and do not have air conditioning.

– Check on your pets. Make sure they have protection from heat and sun and plenty of fresh, cold water. Limit exercise on hot days. And bring them inside if possible.

– Avoid the hottest part of the day. If you have to be outside, stick to the cooler morning and evening hours. Wear light, loose clothing and take frequent, air-conditioned breaks.

– Beware of hot cars. Never leave a person or a pet in a parked car, even for a short time. On an 80-degree day, the temperature inside a car can reach 100 degrees in less than 10 minutes.

– Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water on hot days. Avoid alcohol and hot, heavy meals.  Stay informed. Watch your local weather forecasts so you can plan outdoor activities safely. Pay attention to any extreme heat alerts.

– Remember that anyone can get sick from the heat. In Wisconsin, people ages 15-34 are the most likely to report to the ER for getting sick from the heat.

Officials say no matter your age or how healthy you are, it’s important to stay cool, hydrated, and informed on hot days. If you start feeling overheated, weak, dizzy, nauseated, or have muscle cramps, you could be experiencing heat illness. Move to air conditioning, drink water, get under a fan, and put on cool washcloths. If your symptoms worsen or don’t improve, go to the emergency room.