Heat-Related Alerts: Sizzling Differences

Barbecue grills aren’t the only thing sizzling during the steamy summer months. Temperatures rising to dangerous heights can trigger multiple heat-related alerts, especially when a heatwave is afoot.

Here are a few heat alerts to look out for this summer when the mercury rises to uncomfortable levels:

• Excessive Heat Warnings – These alerts are issued when extremely dangerous temperatures and heat indices are imminent within the next 12 hours. Although it differs depending on location, whenever the heat index is expected to exceed 104 degrees for at least two or more days and nighttime temperatures will remain above 75 degrees, this alert will be issued.  
• Excessive Heat Watches – When this alert is issued, the time to prepare for dangerous, prolonged heat conditions begins. A heatwave becomes probable at this stage but there may be some uncertainty with length and magnitude. Normally it is issued 24 to 72 hours before the heatwave takes place.
• Heat Advisories – One of the more common alerts during high heat episodes in the summer. For most regions, this alert entails the risk of dangerous heat conditions taking place within the next 12 hours. Where it differs from Excessive Heat Warnings is magnitude. The maximum heat index only needs to reach 100 degrees for at least two days or more. 
• Excessive Heat Outlooks – These alerts provide ample enough time to prepare for an incoming heat event. Typically, if a heat event is expected within the next 3-7 days, then your local forecast office will issue an alert and provide further details on what can be expected. 

It is important to note that some areas across the U.S. are more tolerable to high heat and have a lower chance at seeing these alerts. Places such as Florida are more resilient to 90 degrees or more during the summer but areas such as Minnesota or North Dakota are more susceptible to heat alerts.

Stay safe this summer by limiting strenuous activities when temperatures soar to dangerous levels. Utilize shaded areas when possible and make sure to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke can be prevented when the necessary precautions have been taken. Check the WeatherBug app or website frequently for up-to-date information on sizzling temperatures this summer.

Sources: NWS

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