(Recorder of Georgia) Even though high temperatures are common in the Peach State, this week was particularly scorching. The state was warned of high temperatures and humidity by a heat advisory issued by the National Weather Service.
Carmen Hernandez, a meteorologist from NWS Peachtree City, stated that these temperatures are essentially being maintained by an area of high pressure over our region. Heat indices are between 105 and 109 due to high temperatures in the upper 90s and rising dew points.
In order to better depict how the temperature feels to the human body, the heat index measures air temperature and humidity. A temperature of 105 degrees is deemed harmful. When temperatures in Georgia hit these levels this week, a heat advisory was issued on Tuesday and remained in effect for the majority of the state until Wednesday night. In the northwest part of the state, where temperatures are still as high as 105 degrees, the advisory was in effect until Thursday.
There are often a few heat waves in Georgia every year. Despite triple-digit heat indices, meteorologists did not view this week’s weather as unusual or alarming. Atlanta’s NWS provided tips on how to remain cool as the state was engulfed in heat. The best advice was to wear light-colored clothing, drink more water, and limit exposure by staying inside or out of the sun.
Some Georgians are more at risk due to hazardous exposure levels, even with recommended coping strategies. The NWS states that elderly individuals, small children, pets, and outdoor workers are among the vulnerable populations.
Even if air conditioning is still one of the best ways to beat the heat, not everyone can afford this luxury. When exposed to extreme heat, populations without shelter are more vulnerable. Some people in metro Atlanta were able to escape prolonged exposure to heat thanks to cooling centers. This week, Must Ministries Hope House’s Cobb County cooling center has been open every day.
Falecia Stewart, vice president of housing operations, stated, “We operate whenever the temperature is above 90 degrees and we provide lunch and dinner.”
The season’s first day over this temperature came last Friday. The Cobb County cooling center typically experiences its busiest days in July. Twenty-five people visited the cooling center during the day on Tuesday, when the heat advisory started. We welcome guests from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Outdoor safety
Another high-risk category includes those who operate both indoors and outdoors in inclement weather. An estimated 1.8 million Georgians are employed in high-risk occupations that expose them to heat-related illnesses, according to the environmental advocacy group Natural Resources Defense Council. Construction workers, farmers, food processors, and outdoor tourists are among the professions most at risk for heat-related illnesses.
According to Juanita Constible, NRDC senior advocate, heat waves like the one that have been plaguing the Southeast and most of the eastern U.S. recently cause more stress for both outdoor and interior workers in hot environments like kitchens and warehouses. The dangers of heat include minor cramping and dehydration, the possibility of dying from heatstroke, and even cardiovascular diseases that can be made worse by the heat.
The best defenses against heat waves continue to be frequent rest periods, areas with air conditioning or shade, and drinking plenty of water. According to Constible, businesses with employees who are at higher risk ought to have a documented safety plan in place before a heat wave hits.
Pet and livestock safety
In an effort to raise awareness about how to save Georgia’s four-legged friends, several animal advocacy organizations likewise repeated NWS’s cautions.
Dogs cannot sweat to control their body temperature like humans can. They are therefore more vulnerable to ailments brought on by the heat. As a substitute, they pant, letting water escape from their mouths to try to cool down. But with the amount of heat currently engulfing the state, panting may not be enough.
In order to reduce dangers, Dr. Jaclyn Luckstone, president of the Georgia Veterinary Medical Association, advises walking pets in colder weather.
Because pets can easily burn their paws on pavement, Luckstone advised checking the temperature with your palm before taking them for a walk. It’s too hot for them to walk on if you place your palm on the pavement and can’t keep it there for more than a few seconds.
Claudine Wilkins has spent 37 years working in the field of animal advocacy. Wilkins frequently fights against animal abuse in his capacity as co-founder of the Georgia Pet Coalition and executive director of The Animal Protection Society.
According to Wilkins, Georgia is notorious for having numerous issues with heat stroke and animals during the summer.
In Georgia, animals, except fish and the majority of pests, are protected by law. This implies that a criminal case may result from leaving animals in overheated cars. If a passerby sees an animal stuck in a hot automobile during the heat wave or any other warm day, Wilkins advises them to contact the local police for help.
We don’t think about the animals as much since our routines remain the same and we grow accustomed to our air-conditioned homes, automobiles, and offices, Wilkins said.
Additionally, Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper urged Georgians to take care of their cattle and pets.
Harper added, “I am urging all Georgians to take precautions to protect their pets and livestock from heat stress, as extreme heat is predicted for the rest of the week.” Resources from GDA can assist you in recognizing the symptoms of heat stress in your animals and in preventing it.
This week, a heat dome engulfed most of the nation, joining Georgia in the East Coast and Midwest. According to The New York Times, Atlanta was one of 62 major cities where dangerously high temperatures were predicted as of Wednesday.
With highs in the 80s predicted for the entire next week, Georgians may finally enjoy some respite after a long week of oppressive heat.
