Excessive Heat Alerts Explained: Risks, Symptoms, and Safety Tips

What is an Excessive Heat Warning?

If your local weather news issues an excessive heat warning this summer, don’t take it lightly. They’re used to alerting people to dangerously high temperatures that could have a negative impact on their health.

The main cause for concern with these warnings is the heat index, a measurement that combines air temperature and humidity to forecast the perceived temperature. Let’s take a closer look.

What Are the Criteria for Excessive Heat Warnings?

Although the criteria for excessive heat warnings can vary by location, typically, they’re set in place when the heat index is expected to rise above 105°F during the day and not dip below 75°F during the night.