Some advice from a Twin Cities Emergency room doctor as we head into some very hot days when the extreme heat can have life-threatening impacts on your body.
Hennepin Health Care Doctor Jon Cole says the heat can be particularly dangerous for children, older people, and other vulnerable populations.
"If you take medications that can dry you out as well, or prevent your ability to sweat, you're at a higher risk," Dr. Cole told WCCO's Susie Jones.
And when it starts getting too hot, time can be of the essense.
"The hotter it is, the less time you have to be out in that environment," he said. "The time when it's really, really important to seek medical care is if you get so hot that you start to get confused."
Dr. Cole says exposure to excessive heat can have wide-ranging impacts on anyone, from the direct effects of heat on the body to the worsening of existing conditions.
The forecast calls for temperatures in the Twin Cities and much of Minnesota to reach into the upper 90's by midweek, with the hottest days coming on Wednesday and Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service in Chanhassen, the heat index will make it feel like more than 100 degrees.
"This is going to be beastly hot," said WCCO chief meteorologist Paul Douglas.
"We've already had 15 days of 90 degrees-plus in the metro, and I think we'll have five or six days of 90's this week," he said.
High heat indices are forcing Canterbury Park officials to change-up their horse racing schedules this week.
Post times for Wednesday and Thursday at the horse racing track in Shakopee are now 7 p.m. instead of 5 p.m. to protect racehorses and those who work outdoors with them.
The time change means the track's two turf races will move to the main track since the turf track isn't illuminated for races after sunset.
“The decision to race later in the evening as temperatures drop is in the best interest of the racehorses and the people that work outdoors with them,” Canterbury Senior Director of Racing Operations Chris Merz said.
“The Minnesota Racing Commission veterinary staff was consulted and the Minnesota HBPA, which represents owners, trainer and jockeys, is in full agreement.
"Making the decision allows for everyone involved, including our racing fans, to make necessary adjustments.”
With the change in post times two turf races will be moved to the main track. The turf course is not illuminated for racing after sunset. Race 7 on Wednesday will now be run at 5 furlongs on the main track. Race 6 on Thursday will be run at one mile on the main track.
