The National Weather Service issued a heat advisory at 1:21 a.m. on Wednesday valid for Thursday between 10 a.m. and 9 p.m. for Etowah, Calhoun and Cherokee counties.

The weather service describes, “Heat index values up to 105 degrees expected.”

“Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses,” adds the weather service.

Beating the heat: Weather service Heat safety guidelines

• Stay hydrated: Remember to drink plenty of fluids.
• Seek shelter: Stay in an air-conditioned room.
• Avoid sun exposure: Avoid direct sun exposure, protect yourself and check on vulnerable relatives and neighbors.
• Child and pet safety: Never forget to safeguard young children and pets by not leaving them unattended in vehicles, especially during scorching weather when car interiors can become life-threateningly hot.
• Caution outdoors: If you must work or spend time outdoors, take extra precautions.
• Select the ideal time: If possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening when the heat is less intense.
• Recognize heat-related issues: Familiarize yourself with warning signs and how tp recognize the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
• Dress comfortably: Select lightweight and loose-fitting outfits for enhanced comfort.

Additional recommendations for outdoor workers:

• The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas for outdoor workers.
• If someone is overwhelmed by the heat, swiftly relocate them to a cool, shaded location.
• In emergency situations, dial 911 for immediate assistance.

These NWS heat safety directives are essential for safeguarding your well-being when facing high temperatures. Stay well-informed and take the necessary precautions to shield yourself and others from the potential hazards of extreme heat.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.