ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — It may be Independence Day, but the Tampa Bay area isn't free from the heat — a heat advisory was issued for the majority of the region for most of the day.
The National Weather Service (NWS) issued the advisory just after 5 a.m. Thursday. It officially takes effect at 11 a.m. and lasts through 6 p.m. According to forecasters, heat indices (think feels-like temperatures) are expected to top 108 degrees. Some areas, such as parts of the Nature Coast and further south in Sarasota County, could see heat indices reach more than 110 degrees.
This means if you have plans to spend any extended amount of time outside, especially during the peak heat advisory times, take precautions to keep yourself and loved ones safe.
How can I stay cool this summer in Tampa Bay?
Temperatures could reach record highs in the Tampa Bay area, with inland cities soaring to "feels-like" temps in the 100s.
If you can, health officials recommend staying inside where it's cool, especially during the early afternoon hours between 2-3 p.m. when temperatures peak.
Before that, here are five (free) preventative measures you can take, starting right now, to avoid overheating.
- Drink plenty of water
- Dress appropriately
- Use cool wash rags
- Head to the water
- Place ice buckets in front of a fan
When it comes to keeping your family safe, you'll want to know the signs of heat illness or worse, heat stroke.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include excessive sweating, nausea, a weak pulse, dizziness, muscle cramps and cool, clammy skin.
If this happens, get to a cool place and drink water.
Click here for more tips on staying cool in the Tampa Bay area.