The National Weather Service in Lincoln has issued an Excessive Heat Watch, which is in effect from Thursday afternoon through Sunday evening for Macon, Moultrie, Douglas, Coles, Edgar, Shelby, Cumberland, Clark, Effingham, Jasper, Crawford, Clay, Richland, and Lawrence Counties.
This Watch includes the cities of Decatur, Sullivan, Tuscola, Charleston, Mattoon, Paris, Shelbyville, Greenup, Marshall, Effingham, Newton, Robinson, Flora, Olney, and Lawrenceville.
TEMPERATURE…Highs in the mid 90s daily, with heat index reaching 105 to 110.
IMPACTS…The heat and humidity may cause heat stress during outdoor exertion or extended exposure. The very young, the elderly, those without air conditioning, and those participating in strenuous outdoor activities will be the most susceptible. Also, car interiors can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes. Never leave pets, children or the elderly unattended in parked vehicles. The extended period of high heat and humidity will worsen the effects of heat stress.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
An Excessive Heat Watch means that a prolonged period of hot temperatures is possible. The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity will combine to create a DANGEROUS SITUATION in which heat illnesses are possible. Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors.
