Only mad dogs, Englishmen and ranchers go out in the midday sun
GRANITE COUNTY - You can almost hear Martha & the Vandellas warming up in the wings.
In what may end up being the hottest week of the summer, warnings are going out to be careful what you do in the midday sun.
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Missoula is predicting a week in which temperatures could be as much as 10-15 degrees above normal for this time of year, and not a drop of water in site.
The forecast for this week...
Philipsburg ~ Tues-82/44, Wed-87/50, Thur-91/59, Fri-93/59
Drummond ~ Tues-86/48, Wed-91/53, Thur-95/55, Fri-98/56
Georgetown Lake ~ Tues-79/42, Wed-84/48, Thur-88/58, Fri-89/58
Helmville ~ Tues-83/43, Wed-88/48, Thur-92/56, Fri-95/56
Starting Saturday, a cold front will move through and begin dropping temperatures by as much as 10 degrees or more in most areas.
While there are no fire restrictions currently in place by the State of Montana, every county surrounding Granite County has a local burn ban in portions or all of their area.
The NWS is also projecting a UV Index of 8-10, which is categorized as "Very High". According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), this means that harm from unprotected sun exposure can happen quickly. Take extra precautions because unprotected skin and eyes will be damaged and can burn quickly.
Additionally, the EPA makes the following recommendations:
Minimize sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
If outdoors, seek shade and wear protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
Generously apply broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every 2 hours, even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating.
Watch out for bright surfaces, like sand, water and snow, which reflect UV and increase exposure.
During these hot, dry days try to avoid heat exhaustion by staying well hydrated, Be in cooler environments and wear loose, light-colored, light-weight clothing.
If you suspect your or someone else may be suffering from heat stroke (which is a core body temperature above 104 degrees), look for some of these warning signs:
Throbbing headache
Dizziness and light-headedness
Lack of sweating despite the heat
Red, hot, and dry skin
Muscle weakness or cramps
Nausea and vomiting
Rapid heartbeat, which may be either strong or weak
Rapid, shallow breathing
Behavioral changes such as confusion, disorientation, or staggering
Seizures
Unconsciousness
If you suspect that someone has a heat stroke, immediately call 911 or transport the person to a hospital. Any delay seeking medical help can be fatal.
Animals are also susceptible to the heat. Check out this info-graphic from Murdoch University (below) on how to keep your pets safe. And as you may guess, livestock are at risk as well.
