News

Aug 20, 2023

Heat advisory in Volusia, Flagler could last all week

DAYTONA BEACH — As August dog days unfold, summer’s extreme heat shows no sign of cooling down. A heat advisory was issued through 7 p.m. Monday by the National Weather Service in Melbourne for areas

DAYTONA BEACH — As August dog days unfold, summer’s extreme heat shows no sign of cooling down.

A heat advisory was issued through 7 p.m. Monday by the National Weather Service in Melbourne for areas throughout east Central Florida as far south as Stuart north of Daytona Beach to Flagler County and inland to Groveland in Lake County.

In Volusia County, the advisory calls for afternoon highs in the upper 90s, with peak heat index values approaching 112 degrees across much of the area. On the beaches, there’s also a moderate risk of rip currents, the advisory states.

In Flagler County, the advisory calls for dangerously hot conditions with equally high temperatures and heat index values up to 115 expected.

If you’re outside, the weather service advises that you take measures to protect yourself from the heat and sun, to wear protection, including a hat and sunscreen, to stay well-hydrated, and take frequent indoor breaks as needed, preferably in an air-conditioned room.

Also, the advisory offers a reminder to never leave children or pets in a vehicle unattended for any length of time.

Near to above normal temperatures and high humidity are expected to yield triple-digit heat index values throughout the week, with peak heat indexes forecast to exceed 105, according to the forecast.

Heat index readings could be as high 110, according to the NWS. Likewise, the moderate risk for dangerous rip currents is anticipated at all central Florida Atlantic beaches early in the week.

Scattered thunderstorms are forecast on Monday as the east coast sea breeze develops and moves inland. Afternoon storms that develop will push east towards the coast and are expected to dissipate just after sunset. A few stronger storms are possible, producing frequent lightning strikes, gusty winds of 40-50 mph and locally heavy downpours.

More:Beat the heat: Good spots to stay cool during heat wave in Volusia, Flagler

Scattered to numerous afternoon and evening storms are forecast through the week as a moist air mass remains in place across the region.

Here are some important things to know about weathering the heat wave:

The Florida Department of Health in Volusia County offers these tips to beat the heat:

Volusia County’s 14 public library branches have been designated as cooling stations during the stretch of extreme heat. Most of them are open on Saturdays, too, if you need a break from the heat.

Volusia County offers these tips to determine if you’re suffering from heat-related illnesses:

Heat exhaustion. It begins with heavy sweating, cold and clammy skin, nausea or vomiting, muscle cramps weakness, dizziness, headache, and possible fainting.

If you experience these symptoms, move to a cool place, loosen your clothes, put cool, wet clothes on your body, or take a cool shower, and sip water. Seek medical attention immediately if you are vomiting, your symptoms get worse, or symptoms last longer than one hour.

Heat stroke. This is a medical emergency. It’s characterized by a body temperature of 103 degrees or higher, hot and red skin, rapid pulse, headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion and possible loss of consciousness.

Call 911 right away, move the person to a cooler place, and lower the person’s temperature with cool cloths or a cool bath. Do not give the person anything to drink.

Volusia County Animal Services recommends that pet owners follow these safety tips.