To say that this is going to put a crimp in our collective style is an understatement.
For instance, for me, I do a 5K run daily, which I’ll probably have to alter to working out inside on the Peloton.
More impacted are going to be those who work outside – in construction, landscaping.
Y’all can’t just go on desk duty for the week.
Danger zone
The Central Shenandoah Health District tells us that there were more than 3,200 heat-related illness visits to emergency departments and urgent cares statewide last summer, and 526 visits for the northwest region that we live in.
According to the National Weather Service, extreme heat was the leading cause of weather-related deaths in 2024, which is saying something, when you consider the number of deaths due to hurricanes, tornadoes, weather-related vehicle accidents.
The climate deniers among us aren’t going to like to hear this next bit from Dr. Allison Baroco, interim health director of the CSHD.
“The Shenandoah Valley has been experiencing longer, hotter summers and more severe heat over the years,” Baroco said.
What she’s getting at: climate change.
It’s OK. The rest of us already knew.
Please, for the love of god, don’t email the governor to get her fired.
She’s just trying to help.
“Whether you work outdoors, enjoy exercising at your local park, or don’t have air conditioning, it is important to know how to protect your health from extreme heat,” Baroco said.
Stay cool
For the do-my-own-researchers out there, I’ll save you time on the Googler: heat stroke and heat exhaustion occur when your body is unable to cool itself.
Humidity plays a big factor in your body’s ability to release heat. The higher the humidity, the slower your sweat evaporates. Additionally, age, weight, heart disease, poor circulation, alcohol, sunburn, and prescription drugs play a factor in how quickly your body can cool itself.
You can beat the heat with these tips:
- Stay hydrated: Drink water and lots of it. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.
- Stay cool: The easiest way to keep cool is to stay inside in the air conditioning. Don’t have AC? Visit 211 to find a cooling center near you.
- Limit physical activity: Schedule your outdoor activities for the coolest times of the day – early morning or evening. Take frequent breaks in the shade.
- Dress appropriately: Loose, lightweight clothing is the best way to dress for the heat. Wear sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher), glasses, and a sun hat for protection. Reapply sunscreen often.
- Stay informed: Before heading outside check out the Heat Risk Forecast or the CDC Heat and Health Tracker. Know the difference between a heat watch and a heat warning.
- Do not leave children or pets in cars! Temperatures inside the car can rise almost 20 degrees within the first 10 minutes, even with the windows cracked. Make sure pets have plenty of water and shade.
- Check on others: Recognizing the signs of heat-related illnesses and knowing what to do, might save the life of a loved one. If an individual loses consciousness, has a fast, strong pulse, hot, red skin and/or temperatures of 103° F, call 911 immediately. Heat stroke is an emergency.
Share
Chris Graham
