Today Could Be the Hottest Day of the Year to Date - How to Stay Safe During Extreme Temps

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WCBI's Charlie Goldstein, a member of the meteorology team, announced this morning that today could likely be the hottest day of the year to date. In his morning weather briefing, Goldstein mentioned that temps could get into the high 90s. The Golden Triangle has also been under a heat advisory on Tuesday, July 15 and remains under this advisory today.

What's the best way to beat the heat? We often joke about "staying under the air conditioning" during Mississippi summers, but, when temperatures reach 98 or 99 degrees with high humidity on top of already scorching heat, the temperatures become more dangerous than annoying.

Staying indoors during the hottest hours of the day is the best way to beat high temps, particularly for the very young and the elderly. Between 10 AM and 6 PM, these age groups especially should be mindful of the heat.

The next more important step is to stay hydrated. It is so important to drink water rather than soft drinks. Gatorade, Powerade, and other drinks fortified with minerals that may be lost during extreme heat are also good for staying hydrated. Caffeinated soft drinks may soothe thirst, but they will actually contribute to dehydration if that is all you're drinking!

Those who are able to do so are encouraged to stay indoors during the hottest part of the day. Garden or complete yard work during the early hours of the day or after 6 PM. For those who work in the outdoors, it's very important to take frequent breaks, drink water or a drink with electrolytes often, and to know the signs of heat exhaustion.

Early signs of heat-related illness include:

• sweating heavily

• having a raised body temperature

• feeling dizzy or faint

• feeling tired and lethargic

• reduced appetite

• feeling thirsty

• being irritable

• twitching or having painful muscle cramps in the arms, legs, or stomach

If you must be outdoors during the "heat of the day," wear layers of light, loose-fitting clothing. You may also opt to add a wide-brimmed hat to your gear in order to keep the sun off your face and neck.

The heat advisory is expected to end Wednesday, July 16, at 7 PM; however, the advisory could be extended if the weather warrants it.

Stay safe and check on the elderly and those vulnerable to high temperatures today!