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The summer of 2026 is expected to be hotter than usual, with extreme heat waves and heat domes occurring, increasing the risk of poor health due to heat.
At least 40 people have drowned in France while swimming in lakes and canals trying to escape the intense heatwave that is sweeping Europe.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 700 people die each year in the United States from extreme heat.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency says it’s important to know how heat affects your body. Extreme heat can make it difficult to keep your body’s temperature within a normal range, which can lead to a variety of conditions.
Here’s a look at heatstroke and what you can do to protect yourself and those around you.
How are the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke different?
Extreme heat and humidity reduce the body’s ability to cool itself. It’s important to know the signs of excessive heat exposure and how to treat heat-related illnesses. Here we compare the warning signs and symptoms of heat stroke, as well as recommended first aid steps.
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Heat index chart calculates humidity, heat danger
The National Weather Service warns that “extreme heat and humidity significantly increase the likelihood of heat-related illness, especially for those engaged in or participating in outdoor activities.”
This graph shows how hot you feel when the effects of humidity and high temperature combine.
How to help victims of heatstroke
The CDC says people suffering from heat stroke are in a life-threatening emergency. Government recommendations:
How to help heatstroke victims
The CDC says heat exhaustion is a milder illness than heat stroke. Government recommendations:
Who is most at risk?
According to the CDC, a person’s ability to cool down during hot weather is determined by age, weight, fever, dehydration, heart disease, poor circulation, and sunburn. Alcohol or drug use may be a factor.
The following people are at highest risk of heatstroke:
- Over 65 years old.
- Target age is 2 years old or younger.
- Suffering from a chronic illness or mental illness.
According to the CDC, even young, healthy people can suffer from heat stroke if they are active on a hot day.
Tips for staying cool
- drink water, No matter how active you are, more than usual. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty. Give your pet plenty to drink.
- avoid liquids Anything that contains large amounts of sugar, alcohol, or caffeine. These can increase fluid loss.
- Stay in an air-conditioned building As much as possible.
- Take a cold shower or bath.
- limit outdoor activities; Especially during the day.
- Use curtains or shades Near the window to avoid sunlight.
- Limit the use of ovens and stoves To keep the temperature inside the house low.
- Please wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing To improve sweat evaporation.
What else can I do?
- check on happiness Friends and neighbors – need help staying cool?
- Never leave people or pets unattended Even when the car is closed or the windows are partially open. The interior of your vehicle can quickly reach dangerous temperatures.
- Seek medical attention immediately For those with symptoms of heat stroke.
SOURCE USA TODAY NETWORK REPORTS AND INVESTIGATIONS. Associated Press; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Federal Emergency Management Agency. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Emergency Operations Center, Houston
