CULLMAN, Ala. – A dangerous stretch of summer heat is settling over Cullman County and North Alabama, bringing an increased risk of heat-related illness for outdoor workers, children, older adults, athletes, pets and those planning to attend Fourth of July events later this week.
The National Weather Service in Huntsville has issued a heat advisory for Cullman County from noon Sunday, June 28, through 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 30.
According to NWS Huntsville, a dangerous heat wave is expected to persist through the week across the region.
Afternoon heat index values are forecast to climb into the 100-109 degree range, creating conditions where heat-related illnesses can develop quickly without proper precautions.
For Cullman, the NWS forecast calls for highs in the low to mid 90s through the week.
Monday’s high is expected to reach 94 degrees with heat index values as high as 103.
Tuesday is forecast to reach 94 degrees, followed by highs near 93 Wednesday and Thursday.
Friday is expected to bring a high near 94 with a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms.
Independence Day is forecast to be mostly sunny with a high near 93 and a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms.
The message from emergency and weather officials is simple: plan ahead, slow down and take heat seriously.
Residents should drink plenty of water before, during and after time outdoors. Beverages with electrolytes can help those who are sweating heavily or spending extended periods outside. Alcohol should be avoided, especially during the hottest part of the day.
Those working outdoors should take frequent breaks in shade or air conditioning, wear lightweight, loose-fitting and light-colored clothing and shift strenuous work to the morning or evening when possible.
Hats and sunscreen are also recommended for those who will be outside for long periods.
OSHA and NIOSH recommend employers and supervisors use water, rest and shade as basic heat protections for workers.
They also recommend training workers to recognize the signs of heat illness, allowing time for workers to acclimate to hot conditions and adjusting workloads when heat index values rise.
For people attending holiday events, the same rules apply. Bring water, take breaks before feeling sick, avoid sitting in direct sun for long periods and check on children, older adults and anyone who may not recognize symptoms early.
Those who normally spend most of their time indoors should be especially cautious if they plan to spend several hours outside this week.
Alabama EMA has encouraged residents to identify places where they can cool off, such as libraries, shopping centers or other public buildings.
The agency also warns residents not to rely on a fan as their primary cooling device during dangerous heat.
Fans may create airflow, but they do not lower body temperature when conditions become extreme.
Those who need help finding cooling options in Cullman County may contact Cullman County EMA at 256-739-5410.
Pet safety should also be part of the plan. Pets should have access to shade and plenty of cool water.
They should never be left inside a parked vehicle, even for a short period.
Asphalt and dark pavement can also become hot enough to burn paws.
NWS Huntsville also reminds residents to never leave children, disabled adults or pets in parked, unattended vehicles.
Heat can build inside a vehicle rapidly, even when the windows are cracked.
Heat safety checklist
- Drink water regularly. Do not wait until you feel thirsty.
- Avoid alcohol during periods of extreme heat.
- Use electrolyte drinks if sweating heavily or working outside for long periods.
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting and light-colored clothing.
- Use sunscreen and reapply as directed.
- Take frequent breaks in shade or air conditioning.
- Move outdoor work, exercise or yard work to the morning or evening when possible.
- Check on older adults, young children, neighbors and those without reliable air conditioning.
- Keep pets in shade with cool water and never leave them in vehicles.
- Know the signs of heat illness and act quickly.
Signs of heat cramps
Heat cramps may be an early warning sign of heat illness.
Symptoms may include:
- Painful muscle cramps or spasms, usually in the legs or abdomen
- Heavy sweating
What to do:
- Stop activity and move to a cooler location.
- Sip water unless nausea develops.
- Gently stretch or massage the cramping muscle.
- Seek medical attention if cramps last longer than one hour.
Signs of heat exhaustion
Heat exhaustion can become serious if it is not treated.
Symptoms may include:
- Heavy sweating
- Weakness or tiredness
- Cool, pale or clammy skin
- Fast, weak pulse
- Muscle cramps
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fainting
What to do:
- Move the person to a cooler location, preferably air conditioning.
- Loosen clothing.
- Apply cool, wet cloths or have the person sit in a cool bath.
- Offer small sips of water if the person is alert and able to drink.
- Seek medical attention if the person vomits, symptoms worsen or symptoms last longer than one hour.
Signs of heat stroke
Heat stroke is a medical emergency.
Symptoms may include:
- Confusion
- Slurred speech
- Throbbing headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Hot, red, dry or damp skin
- Body temperature above 103 degrees
- Rapid, strong pulse
- Fainting or loss of consciousness
What to do:
- Call 911 immediately.
- Move the person to a cooler location.
- Begin cooling the person with cool cloths, a cool bath or other cooling method.
- Do not give fluids to a person showing signs of heat stroke.
- Stay with the person until emergency help arrives.
