The Big Picture
Utahns are facing a stretch of extreme heat this weekend, with temperatures across the state expected to reach or exceed 105 degrees. Intermountain Health emergency medicine physicians are urging people to take the forecast seriously and make a plan to stay safe, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
Extreme heat can quickly become dangerous, particularly for people spending long periods outdoors, those without reliable access to air conditioning, and people who are more vulnerable to heat-related illness. Simple steps like drinking water, staying in cool places, limiting outdoor activity and checking on others can help prevent serious health emergencies.
What’s Happening
Doctors at Intermountain Medical Center in Murray met with news media Friday to share guidance for Utahns ahead of the extreme heat expected Friday through Monday.
Angela Allen, MD, an emergency medicine physician at Intermountain Medical Center, said high temperatures can become dangerous quickly and that heat-related illnesses can develop rapidly if people do not take precautions.
To reduce the risk of heat illness, Intermountain Health doctors recommend:
- Drinking plenty of water throughout the day, even before feeling thirsty
- Avoiding alcohol and excessive caffeine, which can contribute to dehydration
- Limiting outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, typically between 10 am and 6 pm
- Wearing lightweight, loose-fitting and light-colored clothing
- Taking frequent breaks in air-conditioned buildings or shaded areas
- Using sunscreen and wearing a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors
- Never leaving children, older adults or pets in a parked vehicle, even for a short period of time
- Checking on neighbors, relatives and friends, especially those who live alone or may need assistance
Why it Matters
Extreme heat is one of the deadliest weather hazards in the United States, and triple-digit temperatures can increase the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion can include heavy sweating, weakness or fatigue, dizziness or fainting, headache, nausea or vomiting, and cool, pale or clammy skin. If someone shows signs of heat exhaustion, move them to a cool place, provide water if they are conscious and loosen or remove unnecessary clothing.
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Symptoms may include a body temperature of 103 degrees or higher, confusion, altered mental state or loss of consciousness, hot, red or dry skin, rapid pulse and seizures. Anyone experiencing symptoms of heat stroke should receive emergency medical help immediately. Call 911, move the person to a cooler location and try to lower their body temperature while waiting for responders.
Some people are at higher risk during extreme heat, including older adults, infants and young children, pregnant women, people with chronic medical conditions, people taking certain medications, outdoor workers, athletes, people without access to air conditioning and individuals experiencing homelessness.
The Bottom Line
With temperatures expected to climb into the triple digits, Utahns should plan ahead, stay hydrated, avoid unnecessary time outdoors during peak heat and check on people who may be more vulnerable.
Taking heat warnings seriously and knowing the signs of heat-related illness can help keep families, neighbors and communities safe during this period of extreme heat.