Stay Safe in Extreme Heat

Key Takeaways

There’s heat and then there’s extreme heat. Extreme heat is when temperatures are much hotter than average and sometimes more humid too. Extreme heat can be dangerous and it's one of the leading weather-related causes of death in the U.S.
During extreme heat, your body works extra hard to maintain a normal temperature, which can lead to illness or even death.
Anyone can suffer from heat-related illness but some people are at increased risk.
The best defense against heat-related illnesses is prevention, including steps to stay cool, hydrated, and informed.
The Health Department led the development of the Lincoln-Lancaster County Heat Response Plan to help the community prepare for and respond to extreme heat events. The plan helps people stay safe as temperatures rise.

Understanding Heat Terms

Heat Index: How hot it really feels when humidity is factored in with actual air temperature. These values are calculated for shady, light wind conditions, and being in the full sun can increase the temperature by 15 degrees.
Heat event: A period of dangerous heat, generally lasting more than 2 days. Typically, if there is a heat event there would likely be a heat alert issued by the National Weather Service, which could be a watch, advisory, or warning.
Heat Advisory: Take Action: When the heat index goes above 105 degrees in Lancaster County. It’s hot enough to be dangerous, but not as extreme as a warning.
Extreme Heat Watch: Be Prepared: Extreme heat is possible in the next 1-3 days.
Extreme Heat Warning: Take Action: When the heat index goes above 110 degrees in Lancaster County. It’s dangerously hot right now or will be very soon.