FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. (WSVN) - As South Florida experiences unseasonably high temperatures this week, health experts stress the importance of recognizing heat-related illnesses and taking preventive measures.
The National Weather Service on Wednesday had all of South Florida with a major to extreme heat risk. Meteorologists said the high humidity is making the steamy temperatures particularly oppressive.
The heat index rose as high as 109 degrees Fahrenheit in Fort Lauderdale, 107 degrees in Hollywood and Kendall, 105 degrees in Key West and Opa-locka, and 104 degrees in Miami. However, there were no heat alerts issued.
Dr. Hany Atallah, Chief Medical Officer at Jackson Memorial Hospital, explained the dangers associated with the rising mercury.
“Our body is used to operating within a certain temperature range. When it really gets dangerous, the body isn’t able to regulate and keep itself within that temperature range,” he said.
Health professionals say it’s the combination of heat and humidity that makes the current conditions dangerous. They warn that symptoms such as weakness, headaches or dehydration can indicate heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
“I just want people to be aware of the symptoms of hear exhaustion, if they start feeling nauseous, if they want to vomit or they get dizzy, they start experiencing headaches, palpitations, muscle cramping,” said Dr. Mushfeka Baker, a hospitalist at HCA Florida Northwest Hospital.
“When there is extreme heat, there is an increase in heat exhaustion calls and heat stroke calls. It’s important to know the signs,” said Miami Fire Rescue Lt. Pete Sanchez. “If they have blotted skin, very red skin, that means that they are suffering either heat exhaustion or heat stroke, and those are important signs to get them out of the heat, into the cool.”
For those required to work outdoors, taking frequent breaks and staying hydrated is crucial.
“Drink a lot of water and take a lot of breaks if you have to work outdoors. That way, you can cool down then go back outside,” advised Sanchez.
On Fort Lauderdale Beach, windy conditions kept some of the most oppressive heat at bay. However, the spring hear wave has drawn concerns from experts about what the weather will be like during the summer months.
“We’re seeing temperatures in the 90s, and it’s only May, so at this point it’s worrisome,” said Baker. “My advice to everyone is definitely carry a bottle of water before leaving the house, try to carry an umbrella, a hat and wear lots of sunblock before getting out in the sun.”
South of the county line, the climbing temperatures triggered Miami-Dade Homeless Trust. Their “Red Shirt” crews were seen checking on those living on the streets.
“Water, sunscreen, IVs , all of the things that provide additional electrolytes in the water, Gatorade, the various products that help people sustain themselves during oppressive heat conditions, ” said Ron Book with the Miami-Dade Homeless Trust.
Experts recommend staying indoors and turning on air conditioning.
“This humidity is driving me crazy. There’s no place to go,” said a local resident.
Also, experts remind residents that it’s important to keep an eye on the most vulnerable.
“The elderly, they are prone to getting dehydrated more easily, and also watch children, especially [when] they’re out more in the sun, playing in playgrounds, and so, they are definitely at a higher risk,” said Baker.
Officials also remind the public to find ways to stay cool, wear loose fitted clothes, and ensure pets are not exposed to excessively hot surfaces or left in vehicles for prolonged periods.
In addition to the heat, several storms developed in Broward County in the early afternoon hours.
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