(WWJ) It's not just hot. It's dangerously hot.
With heat indices expected to exceed 100 degrees across much of lower Michigan — including in metro Detroit — through Sunday, the Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (MSP/EMHSD) is urging residents and visitors to stay protected during the extreme heat.
The threat of thunderstorms also remains in the forecast, which could lead to more power outages, compounding the heat danger.
“The high heat and humidity can put stress on the body, making it dangerous to be outdoors for any significant amount of time,” said Capt. Kevin Sweeney, deputy state director of Emergency Management and commander of EMHSD.
In addition, he warned: "The potential for thunderstorms and power outages this week could leave residents without air conditioning and even more susceptible to heat-related illness.”
Following a round of thunderstorms Tuesday night, more than 25,000 homes in business in the DTE Energy metro Detroit service area were already without power, as of Wednesday afternoon.
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To prepare for extreme heat:
• Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes, shades, blinds or awnings to reduce the amount of heat that enters your home.
• Check on family members or neighbors who are elderly, young, sick or overweight, as they are more susceptible to excessive heat.
• Ensure pets have cool housing areas and plenty of water.
• Learn about available cooling centers (see below for Detroit information) or public locations with air conditioning in your community.
To prevent heat illness:
• Drink plenty of water and avoid alcoholic or caffeinated drinks that cause dehydration.
• Wear clothing that allows good air circulation.
• Limit vigorous activity.
• If outside, avoid direct sunlight by staying in the shade.
• Try to schedule outdoor activities during the morning or evening hours to avoid the hottest part of the day.
This comes as a heat advisory was issued for all of Southeast Michigan until 8 p.m. Wednesday, with temperatures exceeding 90 degrees.
In response, four recreation centers and six public libraries in Detroit transformed into cooling centers for residents. COVID protocols will be in place at each of the cooling centers — including mask wearing and social distancing. PPE and bottled water will also be provided.
The Butzel, Farwell, Lasky, and Patton Recreation centers are open Wednesday and Thursday, Aug. 25-26, from noon to 8 p.m.. The Campbell, Edison, Jefferson, Parkman, Redford, and Wilder Library Branches are open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Friday from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Remember: Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 911.
To learn more about how to stay safe during extreme heat, visit www.michigan.gov/miready.
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