Dangerous heat and humidity create risk for heat-related illnesses

Southwest Florida is experiencing one of its hottest stretches so far this year, prompting a Heat Advisory through 7 p.m. as heat index values climb well above 105 degrees.

While actual air temperatures will top out in the middle 90s, high humidity will make it feel significantly hotter. The combination of heat and moisture is expected to push "feels like" temperatures into the 105 to 110-degree range this afternoon.

Areas including Naples, Golden Gate, Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, Arcadia, and North Port could experience some of the highest heat index values.

Why was a Heat Advisory issued?

The National Weather Service issues a Heat Advisory when heat index values are expected to reach 108 to 112 degrees for at least two hours.

The threshold applies across Southwest Florida, though counties are divided between National Weather Service offices in Tampa and Miami. Charlotte, Lee, and DeSoto counties fall under the Tampa office, while Collier, Hendry, and Glades counties are served by the Miami office.

Heat exhaustion vs. heat stroke

With heat index values approaching dangerous levels, it's important to recognize the warning signs of heat-related illnesses.

Heat Exhaustion Symptoms:

• Heavy sweating
• Dizziness or faintness
• Cool, pale, clammy skin
• Muscle cramps
• Rapid, weak pulse
• Nausea or vomiting

Heat Stroke Symptoms:

• Body temperature above 103 degrees
• Hot, red, dry skin
• No sweating
• Throbbing headache
• Rapid, strong pulse
• Confusion or loss of consciousness

Heat stroke is a medical emergency. If someone is showing signs of heat stroke, call 911 immediately and move them to a cooler location while waiting for help.

Heat sticks around

The heat isn't going anywhere soon.

Forecast heat index values are expected to remain above 100 degrees through much of the next week, with several afternoons reaching 104 to 107 degrees. The hottest days appear to be Monday and Tuesday, when heat index values could approach or exceed 107 degrees in some communities.

Even though scattered afternoon storms may develop at times, they are not expected to provide widespread relief from the heat.

Staying safe in the heat

The WINK Weather Authority recommends taking extra precautions during the hottest part of the day:

• Drink plenty of water, even if you don't feel thirsty.
• Take frequent breaks in air-conditioned spaces.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the afternoon.
• Check on elderly neighbors, young children, and those without adequate cooling.
• Never leave children or pets inside a parked vehicle.

With summer officially arriving this weekend, Southwest Florida residents should prepare for more stretches of intense heat and humidity in the weeks ahead.