Community Corner

Hello August: Heat Advisory Issued Through Saturday

St. Louis County has issued an advisory alert, which states the National Weather Service (NWS) has a heat advisory is in effect for the area through Saturday at 7 p.m.

The NWS advisory said high temperatures each afternoon will peak in the mid to uppers 90s with heat index values around 100. The service also said nightfall will bring little relief. Daily low temperatures will be from 75 to 80 in St. Louis City, and around 70 in outlying areas. 

"When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening," the service said. "Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

"Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water." 

If anyone is overcome by heat, find a cool and shaded location.

COOLING OFF

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The NWS also states that heat-related illnesses are a real threat, especially for small children, the elderly, and others with health conditions, as  several days of heat indexes around 100 are just as dangerous as one or two days of more extreme heat.

Should you need cooling assistance, people in the St. Louis area can get information about cooling centers or energy assistance by calling the United Way at 800-427-4426. You can also dial  2-1-1 from a landline phone to reach the United Way.

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The number for Cool Down St. Louis is 314-241-7668. 

BEAT THE HEAT

Below are a few tips for beating the heat:

  • Stay in air conditioned areas as much as possible.
  • Consume lots of water.
  • Wear light-colored clothing outdoors.
  • Avoid cotton clothing. Opt for fabrics that allow your skin to breathe, enabling it to cool off.
  • Run errands early in the morning. 6 a.m. tends to be the coolest part of the day.

BE A SHEPHERD

Be sure to check on loved ones, friends and family. If you know a senior citizen, be sure to call or stop by and ensure they are using air. If they don't have a window unit or central air, offer a room for them until the evening when it's cooler or get them somewhere they feel comfortable, that is also air conditioned.

Also be sure to check on any person who may have a disability to ensure they are doing well in the heat.

Operation Weather Survival and United Way 2-1-1 reminds everyone to take care during hot weather advisories, warnings and emergencies.

At this time, no cooling centers have been announced for the city of Hazelwood; however, dial 211 to get more information regarding the heat and area cooling centers.

For information on what to do during a hot-weather emergency, Missouri and Southwest Illinois residents can call 800-427-4626. For senior citizens who may not be able to pay for air-conditioning, bill assistance information is available by calling United Way 2-1-1 at 211 or 800-427-4626. All calls are free and confidential and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days per year.


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