T
he National Weather Service in Charleston has issued an extreme heat warning for the Kanawha Valley through 8 p.m. Wednesday, June 25. The warning comes as area temperatures are expected to reach near triple digits.
In their warning, NWS forecasters indicate “dangerously hot conditions with heat index values up to 107 ” degrees Fahrenheit are expected through mid-week. Even nighttime lows are expected to be balmy, maintaining temperatures in the 70s Fahrenheit through at least Friday.
Heat can pose a health threat to some individuals. That threat is especially true for vulnerable populations, including young children and infants, older adults, people with chronic medical conditions and pregnant women, experts say.
“Heat-related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat and high humidity events,” weather officials said.
Cooling centers opened
As a precaution, some local communities are opening cooling centers to help residents beat the heat.
The Kanawha Valley Collective (KVC) opened two Charleston stations on Sunday, operating from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. One center was at KVC’s Centralized Assessment Team (CAT) building at 1015 Smith Street on the East End. Another was opened at the West Side Neighborhood SHOP, 319 West Washington Street.
“We anticipate being open some next week as well,” KVC officials said Sunday. More information is expected to be announced on the organization's Facebook page.
Leaders in the eastern Kanawha Valley community of Marmet also said they would open a cooling station for town residents.
“Until June 30th, the George Buckley [Community] Center will be opened as a cooling center on days the temperature is 90 [degrees Fahrenheit] or higher from noon to 8 p.m.,” town officials wrote on Facebook.
Steps to stay safe in the heat
Weather and health experts advise people to take precautions on days with high temperatures.
“Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors,” NWS officials advise.
Adults should also ensure the safety of children and animals during periods of extreme heat.
“Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances,” officials wrote in their warning.
Individuals who work outdoors are also advised to take steps to prevent heat-related illness. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends outdoor workers take frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments.
“Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location,” officials said. “Heat stroke is an emergency. Call 9-1-1.”
More information on protecting yourself from heat-related illness can be found at this link.
