By RYAN SKAITH
St. Joseph Post
Its another hot week as temperatures are rising throughout the Midland Empire.
Meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Pleasant Hill, Brett Williams, says an excessive heat warning is in effect for the St. Joseph area through Wednesday night.
Williams explains heat indices for Wednesday could reach as high as 118 degrees. By Thursday, the heat index will be around 105.
Area residents are reminded to take precautions in extreme heat.
Executive Director of the American Red Cross for Greater Kansas City/Northwest Missouri, JoAnn Woody, says a simple way to cool down is to stay hydrated. "Drink plenty of fluids. Those fluids are things with lower sugar and caffeine."
Woody recommends water and sports drinks, like Gatorade or Powerade, as the best options to stay hydrated.
Other safety tips Woody recommends are taking frequent breaks and paying attention to how you feel. Some signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke are increased thirst, weakness and extreme tiredness, fainting, and muscle cramps. Woody says to pay attention how other people around you are feeling and watch for signs of heat-related illnesses.
Elderly people and young children are particularly susceptible to heat illnesses.
Cooling centers are available throughout the area. Woody says, "The Department of Health and Senior Services has put together an interactive map of cooling centers. That's a great resource to check."