Officials stress safety as temperatures rise

Rising temperatures and high humidity can quickly lead to dangerous heat illnesses.

As we inch closer to summer, those temperatures are only expected to climb.

While extreme heat isn’t unusual here on the Coast, it’s something residents shouldn’t take lightly especially as scorching temperatures can feel more like triple digits.

You can feel burn, but you may not realize the toll it can take on your body.

We spoke with the National Weather Service about the risks and why it’s important to be cautious as temperatures climb. NWS New Orleans/ Baton Rouge Lead Forecaster Rob Frye said, “Just like with any other hazard whether it be heat, which is a very silent hazard, versus a hurricane which is everyone knows about it. Heat does actually get overlooked as being a potential threat. So again, checking on the vulnerable, not leaving kids in hot cars, that’s very dangerous. Your car can heat up to over 115 degrees on an 80-degree day in just 10 to 15 minutes. When you start feeling overheated go into the shade, drink plenty of water, stay hydrated. You must stay hydrated, and also wear the proper clothes. You don’t want anything that’s dark colored like what I’m wearing right now. You want something light, light fitting, something that’s airy.”

Officials say pay close attention and take the necessary steps to protect yourself and others from the heat.