How to Monitor Extreme Temperatures Using the CDC’s HeatRisk Tool

ANDExtreme weather can be deadly, and the deadliest of all is extreme heat. Approximately 1,220 Americans die every year from extreme heat, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. And more Americans die from heat than from any other weather-related hazard — including floods, tornadoes, hurricanes and cold weather — according to estimates. National Weather Service.

That’s why the CDC and NWS have teamed up to launch two experimental tools nationwide that will help public health officials and citizens better prepare for dangerous heat.

“Heat-related illnesses and deaths are preventable,” said CDC Director Mandy Cohen in announcing the new HeatRisk initiative.

HeatRisk, which combines historical public health and temperature data to provide an index that predicts the potential impacts of heat on the human body, was conceptualized in 2013 and tested in California before being expanded to the western US in 2017. From this week, it can now be used nationwide.

Here’s what you should know.

How do you use HeatRisk?

There are two tools for accessing HeatRisk information: Thermal Risk Panel It is Thermal risk prediction. The forecast tool is a prototype map hosted by the NWS that provides 7-day heat forecasts to help inform decision makers about heat conditions that could be harmful to public health, allowing them to plan responses.

It is also, at least for now, available to the public while the NWS solicits feedback on the tool. “The NWS HeatRisk forecast is something that can be tailored to your specific needs and heat sensitivity, allowing you to track the forecast and take the actions you need to take, when you need to,” the tool says.

The HeatRisk Dashboard, hosted by the CDC, serves the general public and extracts data from the forecast map. Users can enter their zip code to get easily digestible, location-specific HeatRisk information. It also provides guidelines and actions that individuals can take to respond to the heat.

Who should use HeatRisk tools?

HeatRisk has been used by California Schools decide on the suitability of outdoor activities for children, but the new tools can be used by everyone. There are, however, several countries that are particularly vulnerable groups to heat – such as the elderly, very young children, people experiencing homelessness, low-income families, those whose work is primarily outdoors, and those who perform strenuous activities at the height of high temperatures – for whom the HeatRisk Dashboard adapts clinical guidance specific.

What exactly does the HeatRisk tool tell you?

HeatRisk has a five-layer color-coded index. One level corresponds to a 24-hour forecast, which considers how unusual the high temperature is, how long the heat will last, and whether these temperatures are associated with elevated risks.

What sets HeatRisk apart from other heat measurement methods is its focus on unusual heat – defined as the warmest 5% of temperatures – specifically for a specific date and location.

There are five heat categories in HeatRisk, ranging from 0 to 4 – the higher the number, the higher the level of heat concern. Magenta (4) is at the upper end, which symbolizes the greatest risk of heat effects, followed in descending order by red (3), orange (2), yellow (1) and green (0), which represents little or no risk of expected heat. Here’s what each category means and how the HeatRisk tool recommends you act accordingly.

Green (0)

Heat does not pose any risk and no preventive measures are necessary.

Yellow (1)

This heat could be tolerated by most, with little risk to heat-sensitive groups.

Recommendation: Opening windows at night and using fans to cool the air inside buildings could mitigate the effects.

Orange (2)

This heat can be tolerated by many, but at risk are visitors to the area who may not have acclimatized to the temperature. Prolonged exposure to the sun can worsen the effects.

Recommendation: The HeatRisk tool suggests reducing time in the sun. In indoor environments, those who do not have air conditioning are advised to use fans and open windows to keep the air circulating.

Red (3)

This heat puts the majority of the population at risk, especially those who practice activities in the sun or those who belong to heat-sensitive groups. Although very uncommon in the US, it is quite common in the South.

Recommendation: The HeatRisk tool says you should reschedule activities for cooler times of the day, stay hydrated and use air conditioning whenever possible.

Magenta (4)

This is “a rare level of heat” that would persist for days and put the entire population of that area at risk. This level of heat has historically been detected a few times a year in the southern regions of the country, especially in the desert Southwest. Heat-sensitive groups and those without refrigeration mechanisms are at risk of death and power cuts are likely.

Recommendation: The index strongly advises considering canceling outdoor activities, using air conditioning or having access to it, spending the night in a cool place and staying hydrated.

What should you do if you are affected by heat?

Extreme heat-related illnesses include heatstroke, heat exhaustion, and heat cramps. The C.D.C. General Council it’s about being aware of warning signs and monitoring those who are at high risk. Workers exposed to heat are also advised have a friend with them to monitor your condition, as heat-induced illnesses can impair cognitive abilities. Here’s what you should know about the most common illnesses and how to respond to them.

Insolation

Heatstroke is a medical emergency that can cause death or permanent disability. Signs of heatstroke include body temperature of 106°F or higher, hot or red skin, rapid or pounding pulse, headache, dizziness, nausea, loss of consciousness, and confusion. O CDC advises calling 911 immediately, moving the person to a cooler location, and helping cool the person’s body temperature as quickly as possible. Patients should not be given alcoholic beverages to calm down.

Heat exhaustion

Heat exhaustion can occur over days after continuous exposure to heat. Signs and symptoms include heavy sweating, cold and clammy skin, rapid and weak pulse, nausea or vomiting, muscle cramps, tiredness or weakness, dizziness, headache or fainting. O CDC advises anyone who presents these symptoms to move to a cool place, wear lighter clothing, cool the body with a damp cloth or bath and drink cold, non-alcoholic drinks. Urgent medical help is needed for anyone who is vomiting or has prolonged and worsening symptoms, according to the CDC.

Heat cramps

Signs of cramping include heavy sweating during exercise and muscle pain or spasms. O CDC advises immediately stopping physical activity, drinking water or a sports drink and waiting until the cramps disappear. Medical help is needed if cramping lasts more than an hour and if the person has heart problems or is on a low-sodium diet.

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