(WWJ) -- Metro Detroit could set a new record on Wednesday -- for heat.
In preparation for beating this record, there is an excessive heat warning in effect from noon Wednesday until 8 a.m. Thursday for Wayne, Macomb, Oakland, Livingston, Washtenaw, Lenawee and Monroe Counties.
AccuWeather Meteorologist Dean Devore says Metro Detroiters can expect uncomfortably hot and humid temperatures throughout the day, with the sunshine and high humidity making it feel like its well over 100 degrees. Actual temps will be in the mid-90s.
People may even see some showers and thunderstorms popping up later in the afternoon and evening.
As for when people can start feeling some relief? That won't come until Friday when the temps finally dip down into the low 80s.
Because of the risks related to the hot weather and the lack of air conditioning, Detroit Public Schools are dismissing students three hours early. Officials say more than half of the schools do not have air conditioning.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is urging Michigan residents to take steps to protect themselves from these heat-related dangers.
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As daily temperatures rise above 80 degrees, emergency visits for heat-related illnesses tend to increase. This is often more likely early in the summer season as people are not yet used to high temperatures and are not taking the necessary precautions, said MDHHS.
“Michigan residents can take steps to protect themselves from heat exhaustion and heat stroke,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, MDHHS chief medical executive. “Young children, older adults and those who have medical conditions are at increased risk for heat-related illness, so be sure to check frequently on them and others in your community who may need additional assistance."
According to MDHHS, when it is very hot, there is an increased risk of heat-related illness, since the body’s temperature rises and cannot be cooled by sweating or the other ways the body cools itself.
To prevent complications from the heat, residents are encouraged to:
• Drink more fluids and avoid liquids with large amounts of sugar or alcohol.
• Limit outdoor activities to when it is the coolest in the morning and evening.
• Spend time indoors in air conditioning.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored and loose-fitting clothing.
• Wear sunscreen, as sunburn affects a body’s ability to cool down.
• Check on elderly neighbors and relatives to determine if they need assistance.
• For those without access to air conditioning, text or call Michigan 211 or contact your local health department to find out if there is a cooling center nearby. You can also spend some time at an air-conditioned store, shopping mall or other public building – even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help.
In addition to staying hydrated and out of the sun, MDHHS reminds residents to never leave children or pets alone in a car even with windows cracked. Temperatures inside a car can easily be double the temperature outside. Because a child’s body heats up three to five times faster than an adult they are more susceptible to heatstroke.
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The most severe heat-related illnesses are heat exhaustion and heat stroke. If not treated, heat exhaustion can worsen and cause heat stroke or death.
Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are both forms of heat-related illness. Signs of heat-related illness vary but may include:
• Heavy sweating
• Muscle cramps
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fainting
• Extremely high body temperature (above 103°F)
• Tiredness
Heatstroke occurs when the body is unable to regulate its temperature and can result in death if not treated promptly, said MDHHS. Humidity can make temperatures feel even hotter and further stress the body's ability to self-regulate.
If you suspect someone has heatstroke, call 911 for immediate medical help and try to cool the person down.
For more information about how to protect yourself and your loved ones from heat-related illness, see the MDHHS Heat Awareness and Safety Fact Sheet, or visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website.
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