Jul. 14--Triple-digit temperatures across the state prompted more heat-related warnings from the National Weather Service Monday, but cooler temperatures are forecast for Wednesday.

According to NWS, hot daytime temperatures are expected through today, with overnight temperatures only falling to the upper-70s and low-80s. Some relief is expected Wednesday when a frontal boundary is expected to enter northern Oklahoma.

High temperatures are expected to fall below 100 starting Wednesday and continuing through at least next Monday.

According to the Mesonet weather-reporting site at Breckinridge, the Enid area has seen high temperatures above 100 since Thursday, peaking at 110 Friday.

Until the cooler weather comes in, a heat advisory is in effect until 9 tonight for all of western Oklahoma, including Woods, Alfalfa, Grant, Woodward, Major, Garfield, Blaine and Kingfisher counties.

A heat advisory is in effect during a period of temperatures, which combined with high humidity, can create a situation where heat-related illnesses are possible, according to the NWS.

So far, area hospitals have seen few cases of heat-related illnesses.

St. Mary's Regional Medical Center saw no cases of heat-related illnesses over the weekend, said spokeswoman Cyndy Shepherd.

Integris Bass Baptist Health Center spokeswoman Anita Andrew said a "few" cases were treated at the hospital.

In Alva, which was named as the hottest place in the state by the Weather Channel Friday with a high of 117, there also have been few heat-related problems.

Alva City Manager Steve Brown said trash service is being done earlier in the day to give workers more cooler hours to work.

Cool Zones have been set up by OG&E Electric Services and partners across the state. Cool Zones are for seniors and others vulnerable to heat-related problems and offer a place to escape the summer heat and related health risks.

Cool Zones in Enid are Public Library of Enid and Garfield County, 120 W. Maine, and Senior Life Network at Oakwood Mall. The library is open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Senior Life Network is open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Possible heat related illnesses include heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat or sun stroke.

Heat cramps are muscular pains and spasms due to heavy exertion. Although heat cramps are the least severe, they are an early signal the body is having trouble with the heat.

Heat cramps should be treated by getting the person to a cooler place and placing them in a comfortable position. Lightly stretch the affected muscle and replenish fluids, giving half glass of cool water every 15 minutes. Do not give liquids with alcohol or caffeine in them, as that can worsen conditions.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include cool, moist, pale or flushed skin; heavy sweating; headache; nausea or vomiting; dizziness; and exhaustion. Body temperature will be near normal.

To treat heat exhaustion, get the person out of the heat and into a cooler place and remove or loosen tight clothing and apply cool, wet cloths.

If the person is conscious, give cool water to drink, making sure the person drinks slowly. Give a half glass of cool water every 15 minutes and do not give liquids that contain alcohol or caffeine. Let the person rest in a comfortable position and watch carefully for changes in his or her condition.

Heat stroke symptoms include hot, red skin; changes in consciousness; rapid, weak pulse; and rapid, shallow breathing. Body temperature can be as high as 105.

<< -- 07/15/2009>>

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