Excessive Heat Warning In Effect For Mercer County

The National Weather Service out of Mount Holly has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for Mercer County from noon Thursday until 8 p.m. Friday. The high is expected to be in the mid-90s both days, with temperatures dropping into the 70s at night. The Heat Index Value is expected to be between 98 and 103 degrees during the day both days.

Those who work outside are advised to take extra precautions. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to the early morning or the late evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing and be sure to drink plenty of water.

To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in a shaded or air conditioned environment. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency. If it happens, call 911.

An Excessive Heat Warning means there will be an extended period of very hot temperatures and high humidity. The combination will create a dangerous situation in which heat related health problems may develop.

“Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air conditioned environment, stay out of the sun and be sure to check on elderly relatives and neighbors,” the warning states. “Young children and pets should never be left unattended in a vehicle under any circumstance. This is especially true during hot weather when a car`s interior can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes.”

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