Heat advisory issued for region

Hot weather has come to the Southeast Missouri area and will stick around for a while, weather experts say.

The National Weather Service on Monday issued a heat advisory for parts of nearly a dozen states in the central and southeast U.S., including Missouri and Illinois. The advisory affected nearly 29 million people.

Weather forecasts in the Cape Girardeau region call for highs in the 90s throughout the week, according to the National Weather Service in Paducah, Kentucky. It issued heat advisories Monday for most area counties, including Perry, Bollinger, Stoddard and Scott in Missouri and Alexander County in Illinois. Temperatures in the low to mid-90s, combined with "oppressive humidity levels," created heat indexes of about 105 degrees, it said. On Tuesday, heat index values again are expected to rise to 105.

A heat index of 105 generally is considered the threshold where the body begins to succumb more easily to the effects of the heat, meaning people exposed to it are at a higher risk for heat-related illnesses.

On the lower end of the spectrum is heat cramps, the symptoms of which include abdomen or leg cramps or spasms and heavy sweating. Heat cramps can be the first sign of a more serious illness, such as heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

Cape Girardeau County Public Health Center director Jane Wernsman said some symptoms of heat exhaustion include dizziness or faintness, chills and headache. If left untreated, it can progress to heatstroke.

Heatstroke occurs when the body is unable to control its temperature regulation, Wernsman said. Symptoms include a high body temperature, dry skin, racing pulse and a possible loss of consciousness.

"If you see someone going through this, call 911," she said. "If possible, try to move the individual to a cooler area."

Heat-related illnesses can affect anyone, though certain groups are more at risk than others. Those with certain underlying conditions such as hypertension or heart disease should be especially careful when in extreme heat, Wernsman advised.

Animals also are susceptible to overheating, the Humane Society of Southeast Missouri stated. Pet owners should watch for excessive panting or difficulty breathing, mild weakness and elevated body temperature.

Animals with flat faces, such as pugs or Persian cats, are more susceptible to heatstroke because they cannot pant as effectively. Animals that are elderly, overweight or with pre-existing conditions should be kept cool and indoors as much as possible.

Pets should not be left inside vehicles, and walks on hot sidewalks or pavement should be kept to a minimum.

Anyone working outside during high-temperature days should take precautions to stay safe, Wernsman said. Taking long breaks and drinking plenty of water is advised, she said.

Sugary, caffeinated drinks should be avoided because they can lead to dehydration. She also recommends wearing light, loose clothing.

Even those who expect to be outside working for just a few minutes should use the buddy system. Wernsman said it's important to bring someone along while outside, or at least advise a friend or neighbor who could check in or call for medical assistance if necessary.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services' website, health.mo.gov, has tips on how to keep homes cool during extreme heat. It also has an interactive map of cooling centers that includes many public areas such as libraries or community centers.

srinehart@semissourian.com

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