We're sure many of you have heard about the heat index. But what exactly does that mean? While most people may have a pretty good guess at what it may mean in general, the science behind the term is often lost in translation. among the public. Simply put, the Heat Index is a combination of the air temperature with what the current relative humidity is. This produces a human-perceived equivalent temperature - or how hot it actually feels to your body.
For example, very high levels of humidity can make a 90 degree temperature feel like it's well over 100! So what exactly is the reason for this, you may ask? Well, usually the body cools itself down by perspiring. This in turn evaporates and carries heat away form the body. However, when the relative humidity is high, the evaporation rate can be significantly reduced - and this process is compromised. As a result, the body has a harder time removing heat from itself, which makes it feel hotter than it actually is.
Included below is the "Heat Index Chart," which shows expected numerical values based on temperature and relative humidity, along with the anticipated impacts on the human body during exposure.
You may not know it, but the heat can be a silent danger. While you're out there sweating in sweltering conditions, your body may be giving you a sign that something is not right. Knowing the signs and symptoms before things get worse can help you prevent a trip to the emergency room. So, what are the signs? Check out this handy graphic from the CDC/NOAA:
So, remember these tips while you're in the summer heat, because you never know when information like this can come in handy. It may even save a life. Stay cool out there!
More information on heat related illnesses can be found here: https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat
