Austin weather: Extremely steamy heat today Austin weather: Extremely steamy heat today

AUSTIN, Texas – An Extreme Heat Warning has been issued for most of Central Texas.

Counties included in the alert include Williamson, Hays, Travis, Bastrop, Caldwell, Fayette and Bexar.

The National Weather Service says heat index values are expected between 113 to 118.

What you can do:

First responders gave some tips on how you can protect yourself from the heat:

Pre-hydrate ahead of going out in the heatWear sunscreenWear light-colored, loose-fitting clothingLimit activities to early morning and evening

Officials are also reminding residents to be sure to look before you lock your vehicles to make sure you aren’t leaving behind children or pets.

Dig deeper:

Symptoms of heat stroke and exhaustion

Exposure to heat puts everyone at risk for heat-related illnesses, and in some cases, the illnesses can lead to a heat stroke and become deadly.

It is essential to know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and heat cramps. 

Heat exhaustion symptoms include:

Cool, pale, clammy skinWeaknessDizzinessHeavy sweatingNausea or vomitingFast, weak pulse

What to do for someone experiencing heat exhaustion:  

Cool them and move themMove the person to a cooler area immediatelyLoosen clothingSip cool water slowly Impact of extreme heat on mental health Impact of extreme heat on mental health Impact of extreme heat on mental health

Doctors say extreme temperatures can have significant impacts on our mental wellbeing including our ability to think clearly and make decisions. FOX Medical Team’s Dr. Mike joins us with more.

If symptoms do not improve, they last longer than an hour, or the victim begins vomiting, you should seek medical help. Heat exhaustion can quickly lead to heat stroke within minutes. 

Heat stroke symptoms include:  

Hot, red, dry or damp skinRapid and strong pulseThrobbing headacheConfusionNausea or dizzinessBody temperature above 103 FLethargy or loss of consciousness

Heat stroke is a severe medical emergency that can cause death or permanent damage if emergency treatment is not given promptly. If you or someone you are with experiences symptoms of heat stroke, move them, cool them, and call 911: 

Move the person to a cooler area, preferably air-conditionedReduce their body temperature with cool clothes or bathsDo not give fluids or anything by mouth to a person experiencing heat stroke

The Source: Information from meteorologist Zack Shields, National Weather Service and previous reporting.

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