ST. PETE BEACH, Fla. — Temperatures across the Tampa Bay area will flirt with near-record numbers this week, with highs above normal in the mid-to-upper 90s. Coupled with high humidity levels, it'll be an uncomfortable, sticky heat.
As early as 5 a.m. Wednesday morning, temps were already reaching the lower 80s, making it a potentially dangerous start for anyone stepping outside. A new heat risk map from the National Weather Service shows all of the Tampa Bay area under a "moderate" risk for heat-related illness. Small pockets along the Gulf Coast in Pinellas and Sarasota counties are under a "major" risk.
And although Floridians may be used to the brutal summer weather, it can be deadly.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, heat kills more Americans than any other weather event, including tornadoes and flooding, even though most heat-related deaths are preventable through outreach and intervention.
The Florida Department of Health recommends anyone going outdoors during the record temperatures should stay on top of their hydration, drinking 64 or more ounces per day, and taking fluid in before they're thirsty.
Wearing light-colored and loose-fitting clothes is imperative to let the body do its job.
The body normally cools itself by sweating, but extreme heat can prevent your body's ability to do that which could lead to heat exhaustion, stroke, organ failure or even death.
Older adults, children and people with chronic illnesses are most at risk. But others can be severely affected as well.
The heat can have dire consequences on people who work or exercise outdoors. Homeless people or those without efficient air conditioning or any at all can also suffer.
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.
However, if you stop sweating, your skin becomes hot and you develop a strong pulse or throbbing headache, you may be suffering from heat stroke.
Heat stroke is a medical emergency, and you should call 9-1-1 immediately.