Charleston, South Carolina – Dangerous heat and humidity are once again gripping the Lowcountry and Southeast Georgia, with the National Weather Service issuing a heat advisory for parts of the Charleston Tri-County area and Hilton Head. The heat index is expected to soar to 105-108° today, lasting until 6 p.m. Tuesday.
What to Expect:
Heat Index: The heat indices will range from 105 to 108° in affected areas, particularly from Charleston, Summerville, Moncks Corner, Beaufort, and Savannah. Inland areas such as Walterboro and Sylvania will also experience temperatures exceeding 100°.
Timing: The most intense heat will hit between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m., so residents are urged to take extra precautions during this time.
Relief: Scattered showers and thunderstorms may offer some brief relief in the afternoon, but the overall heat and humidity will remain oppressive.
Health and Safety Tips:
Stay Hydrated: Drink water frequently to prevent dehydration.
Stay Indoors: If possible, stay inside air-conditioned spaces during the hottest part of the day.
Dress Light: Wear loose, light clothing to help your body cool down.
Outdoor Activities: If you must be outside, take frequent breaks in the shade, wear a hat, and monitor yourself and others for signs of heat exhaustion, which include dizziness, nausea, and heavy sweating.
Risks and Impacts:
Heat-Related Illnesses: The high heat combined with oppressive humidity increases the risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, especially for vulnerable populations like the elderly and young children.
Power Outages: Heat waves often lead to increased power demand, which could result in outages, potentially exacerbating the risk of heat-related illnesses.
Forecast Outlook:
Today marks one of the hottest days of July so far, with a 30% chance of heat indices exceeding 108° in the Charleston metro area. These extreme conditions are dangerous, even for healthy adults.
Future Advisories: If storms miss the region or the heat persists into Wednesday, additional advisories may follow.
Stay safe during these extreme conditions, and be sure to take precautions to protect yourself from the heat.
