Weekend Weather: Extreme Heat Bearing Down On Rhode Island

Extreme heat and humidity are going to hit Rhode Island and much of the country with a one-two punch this weekend, with little relief expected until at least Tuesday. In extreme heat, it's important to take steps to stay safe and healthy. Heat-related illnesses can set in quickly and become dangerous.

"Extreme heat can be a serious health concern for anyone. However, extreme heat can be particularly dangerous for younger children, older adults, and people with chronic medical conditions, such as heart disease or high blood pressure," said Ana Novais, the deputy director of the Rhode Island Department of Health. "With the temperatures that are forecast for the next few days, people should be checking on each other, staying well hydrated, limiting their exposure to the heat, and watching for signs of heat-related illness."

The best way to stay safe in extreme heat is to avoid being outside as much as possible, particularly during the heat of the day from the late morning to mid-afternoon. Those without air conditioning are encouraged to visit a cooling center in their community.

The American Red Cross said to plan ahead, paying attention to weather forecasts as well as the heat index versus the actual temperature. High humidity can push up the heat index, making the air feel considerably hotter than it actually is. Talk to family members to ensure everyone, especially children and the elderly, will be safe throughout the day.

Pets also need extra attention during extreme temperatures. Bring dogs inside and be aware that paws can burn on hot sidewalks. If it's too hot to walk around barefoot, it's likely too hot for your dog's paws as well. Make sure pets have plenty of cool, fresh water available throughout the day and never leave pets alone in vehicles, even if the windows are open or the air conditioner is running.

Here are some more tips from the Rhode Island Department of Health.

• Drink more fluids than usual, and don't wait until you are thirsty to drink more fluids. Avoid alcohol or liquids that contain high amounts of sugar.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Add a hat if you must be outside.
• Limit outdoor activities, especially at mid-day. If you exercise outdoors, move your workout to a morning or evening time.
• If you work outside, wear sunscreen, pace your activity, stay hydrated and check on co-workers.
• Take cool showers or baths to cool down, particularly if you’re unable to be in an air-conditioned location.
• Avoid turning on your oven, if possible. It will make your house hotter.

Know the signs of heat exhaustion and stroke. A person suffering from heat exhaustion will show the following symptoms: cold, pale or clammy skin, nausea or vomiting or fainting. Have the person lie down in a cooler area. Loosen any tight clothing and apply cool, wet cloths to help them cool down while they sip water. If they begin vomiting, symptoms do not improve or they begin to feel worse, seek medical attention.

Heat stroke is a far more serious condition. A person suffering from heat exhaustion will often have hot, dry, red or moist skin, a high body temperature of 103 degrees or more, a rapid pulse, confusion and loss of consciousness. Call 911 right away and move the person to a cooler area. Apply cool, wet cloths or place the person in a cool bath to lower their body temperature. Place ice packs on the neck, under armpits or in the groin area, where large arteries are closest t the skin's surface.

Here's a look at Rhode Island's weekend weather forecast from the National Weather Service.

Friday
Mostly sunny, with a high near 87. Northwest wind 6 to 10 mph becoming south in the afternoon.

Friday Night
Partly cloudy, with a low around 75. Southwest wind 6 to 8 mph.

Saturday
Mostly sunny, with a high near 96. Heat index values as high as 107. West wind 7 to 9 mph.

Saturday Night
Patchy fog after 5 a.m. Otherwise, partly cloudy, with a low around 77. Southwest wind 5 to 9 mph.

Sunday
A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after 3 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 96. Southwest wind 6 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20 percent.

Sunday Night
A chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 8 p.m. Patchy fog after 5 a.m. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with a low around 75. Southwest wind 5 to 8 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30 percent.