If you live in the Western side of the United States, get ready for a scorcher this weekend, meteorologists warn. Excessive heat warnings and watches have been issued today by the National Weather Service for most of Arizona, Nevada, California and parts of Utah which are in effect till Monday.
"An excessive heat warning is issued when temperatures are forecast to reach dangerous levels that will stress the body if precautions are not taken," the weather service warns.
"Heat stroke symptoms include an increase in body temperature, which leads to deliriousness, unconsciousness and red, dry skin," according to a weather service online report. "Death can occur when body temperatures reach or exceed 106-107 degrees."
The cause of the heat wave is a "massive and unusually strong high-pressure system" over the region, the weather service reports.
"Daytime temperatures will soar well into triple digits, and overnight lows will struggle to drop into the 70s and 80s," notes weather service meteorologist Mary Beth Gerhardt in a Weather Prediction Center report.
The weather service warns residents in these areas to take precautions by drinking lots of water and stay in cool places instead of being out and about in the sun. However, even you planning to stay indoors, they advise to reschedule and limit strenuous activities to early mornings or evenings. Stick to just wearing light clothes and stay near well ventilated areas. The most important measure is to remain hydrated on water, and try to avoid coffee or other caffeinated beverages which may leave you more dehydrated.
Those most susceptible to heat stroke are babies and the elderly and extra precaution is advised.
