Montgomery County issued a Heat Emergency Alert beginning at noon on Monday, June 23 and ending at 8 a.m. on Thursday, June 26. The National Weather Service (NWS) also issued Extreme Heat Warnings for Monday and Tuesday, each from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Temperatures are expected to reach a heat index of 105 degrees, which NWS marks with a “Danger” warning. Hot temperatures combined with high humidity can cause serious health risks including heat cramps during exercise, heat exhaustion, and potential cases of heat stroke. Heat-related illness is especially dangerous for seniors and young children.
Officials encourage residents to stay in air-conditioned locations. People who work or spend time outdoors should take extra precautions to protect their health, including remaining hydrated by drinking lots of water and taking breaks in cool or shaded areas. County facilities such as libraries, recreation centers and senior centers are all free air-conditioned spaces for residents to cool off during operating hours, as well as swimming pools with admission. Free bottled water will be available for riders on Ride On, Ride On extRa, Flex and Flash buses. During times of extreme heat, Progress Place in downtown Silver Spring will be open during the day for individuals to escape the heat. Homeless shelters will be open 24/7 to provide a safe environment for unhoused people during high temperatures; outreach workers and police will be encouraging those who are unsheltered to come inside during the excessive heat.
People above 65 are more likely to be hospitalized for heat-related illness. The Environmental Protection Agency states that men have a higher tendency to be hospitalized for heat-related illness.
Heat cramps are painful, involuntary muscle spasms induced during exercise in high heat. Heat cramps mostly affect the abdomen and legs and are triggered by high temperatures and loss of electrolytes through sweating. Athletes, especially those who participate in cardio-intense exercise outdoors such as running, are at risk of heat cramps. Those who work outside, especially those who do strenuous physical labor are also at risk of heat cramps.
Heat exhaustion occurs when the body is unable to properly cool itself. Symptoms include excessive sweating, headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting and high heart rate. The best ways to treat heat exhaustion are to find a shaded or cooled area, remove excess clothes, life down and slowly sip water or other fluids. However, do not drink anything if you suspect you may have heat stroke. Heat stroke increases risk of aspiration, or inhaling fluid into the lungs, which is a serious health risk.
Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness. Heat stroke is classified in two types: exertional, or exercise-related, and classic, or non-exertional. Classic heat stroke is most common among seniors and young children after long exposure to high temperatures. Exertional heat stroke is triggered by physical activity coupled with high temperatures. Symptoms of heat stroke include high body temperature, dizziness, confusion or delirium, fainting, nausea, vomiting and seizures. Heat stroke is a serious health risk. If you suspect you or another person may have heat stroke, seek medical attention immediately by calling 911.
More information about Heat Emergencies, including safety in high temperatures and county cooling resources can be found here.
