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Parts of the Tennessee Valley are under an **EXCESSIVE HEAT WARNING** through Friday. It includes Madison, Limestone, Lauderdale, and Colbert Counties in Alabama. In Tennessee, Moore and Lincoln Counties points west along US 64. We are used to Heat Advisories, but what is an excessive heat warning.

Honestly, it’s just another level of heat. It’s regional dependent on the heat index with the ‘wording’ varying from 105 to 110 degrees plus. The bottom line is just going to be extremely hot the rest of the week.

From the National Weather Service in Huntsville:

…EXCESSIVE HEAT WARNING IS IN EFFECT UNTIL 7 PM FRIDAY…

  • WHAT…Dangerously hot conditions with heat index values above 110 degrees
  • WHERE…Colbert, Lauderdale, Limestone, & Madison counties in Alabama along with Lincoln County in Tennessee.
  • WHEN…Until 7 pm Friday
  • IMPACTS…Extreme heat and humidity will significantly increase the potential for heat-related illnesses, particularly for those working or participating in outdoor activities.
  • PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances!

Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing when possible. To reduce the risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, take frequent breaks. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.

Heat Advisory Information

While some areas were upgraded to an Excessive Heat Warning others remain under a Heat Advisory. The advisory remains in effect until 7 pm Friday. Areas under the advisory will experience heat index values between 105-109 degrees. Whether you are under an advisory or warning, it is important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself from the heat.

Heat Safety

It is important to know the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. If you think that you or someone else is experiencing symptoms of heat exhaustion you should get to a cool place and try to cool off. If you are experiencing symptoms of heat stroke you should seek emergency medical care.

The Heat Index and How It Impacts You

Take the necessary precautions to protect yourself, your young children and your pets from this extreme heat. If you have to be outdoors, limit the amount of strenuous work you do. Seek shade or go indoors when needed. Make sure you are drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated! Most importantly, never leave a child or animal in a hot car!