The heat is on: What you need to know and look out for

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) – As we head into the thick of summer and the hottest time of the year, heat advisories, watches, and warnings are going to become no stranger to the Coastal Empire and Low Country. I’m going to break down all the different types of watches and warnings we could be seeing very soon.

It is important to note that heat and humidity are both taken into consideration when a heat warning is issued. The criteria to meet in order to see a heat advisory, watch, or warning issued is based on the heat index. The heat index combines air temperature and dew point temperature to create a feels-like temperature.

HEAT ADVISORY

We’ve already seen this one issued a few times this summer. A heat advisory is issued by the National Weather Service when the heat indices reach the heat advisory criteria which is 108-112 degrees F for two hours or more.

HEAT WATCH

A heat watch is usually issued if the National Weather Service plans to issue an excessive heat warning. A heat watch means that all atmospheric conditions are in place for the excessive heat warning criteria to be met within 12 to 48 hours.

EXCESSIVE HEAT WARNING

This warning is the most extreme of them all. An excessive heat warning is issued when heat indices reach 113 degrees F or more for two hours or more.

Excessive heat can quickly turn dangerous. It is important to remember to check your car before you leave for any children or pets. It is also important to note that when walking pets, their paws can burn very quickly on the ground, so make sure you are taking extra precautions when walking them.

Seeing excessive heat for more than a day can become dangerous to human health. Our bodies don’t have time to cool down. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can occur as excessive heat continues. Make sure to check on friends and family during heat waves, wear light clothing, drink plenty of water, avoid any vigorous outdoor activity, and stay in the air conditioning.