Excessive Heat Warning Issued For Several Counties In Maryland
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- An excessive heat warning has been issued for Baltimore City as well as Baltimore, Howard and Anne Arundel counties.
According to the National Weather Service, the warning will remain in effect until 8 p.m. Tuesday.
A heat advisory is also in effect Tuesday.
It's the third day of a dangerous heat wave not just in Maryland but across much of the Northeast.
The heat index is expected to reach 100 degrees, although temperatures will be in the low 90s.
The National Weather Service is advising that residents watch out for signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
The NWS posted a reminder Friday that heat kills more people each year than tornadoes, lightning and floods.
During periods of extreme heat, the Baltimore City Health Department recommends the following:
- Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and caffeine
- Reduce outside activities and stay inside in air-conditioned locations
- Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles, even for short periods of time
- Check on older, sick, or frail neighbors who may need help in the heat
- Watch out for signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which include:
- Confusion
- Hot, dry, flushed skin or cool and clammy skin
- Lightheadedness
- Nausea
- Call 911 immediately if any of these symptoms occur
Tips to keep pets safe in heat:
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- Do not leave a pet in a car: Even with windows rolled down, temperatures inside a car can still be 15 degrees higher than outside, experts say. It is against the law to leave a pet in a car when the temp is above 78 degrees, according to the Cook County animal control department.
- Keep pets cool outside: Provide water and shade. Animals with short coats or with white or tan fur are susceptible to sunburn, especially on their noses.
- Get a haircut: For dogs with thick hair, cut those coats to one inch to keep your dog more comfortable while avoiding sunburn.
- Take care of your dog's paws: Asphalt and sidewalks are hotter than grass, and dogs' paw pads are highly sensitive to heat. Walk your dog on grass, dirt or gravel.
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