By By Lydia Grimes – features reporter
It's hot out there.
The National Weather Service in Mobile has issued a heat advisory which in effect until 7 p.m. today and could be extended for another day or two.
According to David Adams, Escambia County emergency management director, high pressure across our area will continue to keep us under a hot and very humid air mass.
Temperatures in the afternoon are expected to be in the high 90s with a heat index of 105-110 in much of the area. Low temperatures at night will be in the mid to upper 70s which doesn't allow for much cool-down. If it rains there could be some relief, but temperatures are expected to continue to range in the 90s.
Ricky Elliott with the Escambia County Health Department said people should drink water if they are going to be outside.
A heat advisory means that a period of hot temperatures and dangerously high heat indices is expected. The combination of high temperatures and high humidity create a situation in which heat illnesses are possible. Those more prone to suffer are outside workers, the elderly, children and those who have chronic diseases. To avoid heat exhaustion or the more dangerous heat stroke, one should follow some rules to prevent overheating.
Drink lots of fluids, especially water; take frequent breaks from outdoor activity; limit alcoholic and caffeinated beverages; take a cool bath or shower; and wear lightweight or loose-fitting clothing. The following steps are recommended by the National Weather Service to help during a heat wave even if there is air-conditioning.