Following record-breaking temperatures for the Fourth of July on Tuesday, the Tampa Bay area is again under a heat advisory on Wednesday. The advisory is in effect from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. for the counties listed below:
- Citrus
- DeSoto
- Hardee
- Hernando
- Highlands
- Hillsborough
- Manatee
- Pasco
- Pinellas
- Polk
- Sarasota
Temperatures will reach the low to mid-90s, while the heat index will reach 110°F at times. Moreover, the heat index is a measure of how hot it actually feels when relative humidity and actual temperature are included.
The Florida Department of Health provides these general tips for staying safe in the heat:
- Dress for the heat. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect away some of the sun’s energy. It is also a good idea to wear a hat or to use an umbrella.
- Drink water. Carry water or juice with you and drink continuously even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which dehydrate the body.
- Slow down and avoid strenuous activity. If you must do strenuous activity, do it during the coolest part of the day – morning hours between 4 and 7 a.m.
- Stay indoors when possible. If air conditioning is not available, stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine.
- Be a good neighbor. Check in on elderly residents in your neighborhood and those who do not have air conditioning.
- Don’t forget your pets. Make sure they have access to water, ventilation and shade.
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