Halloween decorations creeping across store shelves might have many already thinking about their favorite fall festivities, but the Florida summer isn’t showing any signs of slowing down.
The Florida Panhandle will be under a heat advisory from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday as the National Weather Service office in Mobile, Alabama, expects heat index values to reach up to 110 degrees in some areas.
Escambia, Santa Rosa and Okaloosa counties will see feels-like temperatures around 109 degrees on Friday, which could linger into Saturday. Sunday temperatures are expected to be slightly lower.
Pensacola has had a cool but rainy August
Halfway through the month, August has been quite the departure from July. The average temperature has hovered around 82 degrees, which is 1.3 degrees below normal. July’s average temperature was 84.8 degrees—1.3 degrees above the typical temperature.
Near daily rounds of thunderstorms more than made up for July’s drought-like conditions. August has already seen 10.48 inches of rain, which is almost three times the normal amount. In comparison, just 2.93 inches of rain fell in July.
What is a heat advisory? What to know about heat alerts
The National Weather Service uses a three-tiered heat alert system. Not all local offices use every heat-related product due to some places being more prepared to deal with intense heat than others.
Here’s a general rundown of what each heat alert means:
Extreme Heat Warning — Take Action! An extreme heat warning is issued when extremely dangerous heat conditions are expected or occurring. Avoid outdoor activities, especially during the heat of the day. If you must be outside, be sure to drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks in the shade. Stay indoors in an air-conditioned space as much as possible, including overnight. Check on family and neighbors.
Extreme Heat Watch — Be Prepared! An extreme heat watch is issued when conditions are favorable for an extreme heat event but its occurrence and timing is still uncertain. Plan to suspend all major outdoor activities if a warning is issued. If you do not have air conditioning, locate the nearest cooling shelter or discuss staying with nearby family or friends who have air conditioning.
Heat Advisory — Take Action! A heat advisory is issued for dangerous heat conditions that are not expected to reach warning criteria. Consider postponing or rescheduling outdoor activities, especially during the heat of the day. If you must be outside, be sure to drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks in the shade. Stay in a cool place, especially during the heat of the day and evening.
How to stay hydrated in extreme heat
It’s crucial to stay hydrated during extreme heat to prevent heat-related illness. Here are some tips on how to stay hydrated:
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An average person needs to drink about 3/4 gallons (about 12 cups) of water daily, according to the American Red Cross. This varies by person, however.
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Pay attention to your urine color. Dark yellow may indicate you’re not drinking enough water.
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Avoid sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic drinks.
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Combine water with snacks or a sports drink to replace salt and minerals if you are sweating a lot.
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Talk to your doctor if you have a medical condition that would put you at risk, or you’re taking medications.
This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Florida Panhandle under heat advisory as temps reach 110
