Weather Service Issues Heat Warning

If you haven’t already noticed, it’s really hot outside.

It’s so hot, the National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning.

The warning remains in effect from 1 p.m. this afternoon to 6 a.m. Thursday.

According to the Weather Service, there will be heat index values around 100 this afternoon and near 105 on Wednesday afternoon. Heat index values may not drop below the 80's in highly urbanized areas during tonight and Wednesday night.

The effects of the heat are dangerous to everyone, but most especially to the elderly, the infirmed and the very young.

It is suggested that we be sure to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air conditioned locations, stay out of the sun and check on elderly relatives and neighbors. Do not leave a person or a pet in a parked vehicle.

Those who work or spend time outside are asked to take extra precautions. When possible, reschedule strenuous activity to the early morning or late evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing.

Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency - call 9-1-1.

Here’s the local forecast:

This Afternoon Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 99. West wind around 10 mph.

Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 77. Southwest wind 5 to 7 mph becoming calm after midnight.

Wednesday A chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 96. Southwest wind 3 to 7 mph. Chance of precipitation is 50%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Wednesday Night Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly between 8 p.m. and 2 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 78. West wind 3 to 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

Thursday A chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 91. North wind around 6 mph becoming east in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 40%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.